Gathering her thoughts over the news, Melanie shared on Instagram: “Des had the softest hands of anyone I ever met and the kindest of hearts.
“He had talent in every fibre of his being and was stubborn as a mule. He was the full ticket as a friend and colleague.
“When he chose me to be his co-host on the ‘Today’ daytime show it was one the greatest days of my professional life. It was an education and a privilege to work with him for the years that followed.”
She finished off by writing: “We worked long hours but always laughed lots, not least because when it was showtime he would always tell me I looked like a robber’s dog!
“These years I will never forget and nor will I forget him. Darling Des you will be forever missed. Melanie x.”
source: express.co.uk