Westminster correspondent Harry Smith dies suddenly

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 2d

Popular veteran Westminster correspondent Harry Smith dies suddenly at home, his family announces.

Veteran Westminster reporter Harry Smith died suddenly last week, his family have announced on Twitter.

The Scottish journalist was a favourite in the Houses of Parliament for decades, working for the BBC, ITN, STV and Channel 4, among other outlets.

Smith remained active on Twitter right up until his death, with his family using his account this morning to make the sad announcement.

"Very sadly Harry died suddenly early on Friday morning," they wrote. "It's so hard to believe his energy and sense of fun are gone. Many of you will have known him for his strong opinions and humour on here. He'll be greatly missed by family, friends and colleagues."

Channel 4 news anchor Krishnan Guru-Murthy paid tribute with the message: "I'm so sorry to hear this news. He will indeed be sorely missed. Was great to have him part of the C4N family in recent years after so long at ITN/STV. That's a great picture you have posted of him. My best wishes and condolences."

Nicola Sturgeon, first minister of Scotland, wrote: "This is terribly sad news. Harry was a stalwart of Scottish and UK political reporting, and always a gentleman. My thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends and former colleagues."

Smith's cause of death is currently unknown.