BBC weatherman Ian McCaskill dies aged 78

The Glasgow-born star presented the weather for 20 years

Ian McCaskill was known for his Scottish accent at a time when it was not common for presenters to have regional accents

Former BBC weather forecaster Ian McCaskill has died aged 78.

Mr McCaskill, who had been living with dementia, died on Saturday, his daughter Kirsty told the corporation in a statement.

Known for his Scottish accent, Mr McCaskill presented the weather on the BBC from 1978 to 1998.

The Glasgow-born star then retired and appeared on several TV shows, including Celebrity Fit Club in 2002.

BBC forecasters Ian McCaskill (left) and Michael Fish (PA)

His daughter's statement said: "Ian McCaskill's family is sad to announce that Ian, 78, died on Saturday 10 December 2016 after living with dementia for the past five years.

"Ian was a truly lovely man who loved his family unconditionally and brought lots of sunshine to people's lives with his friendly smile, kindness and sharp wit.

"He is survived by his wife Pat, whom he adored, two daughters, Vicky and Kirsty, two step-sons, Tim and Matthew, and nine grandchildren. He will be deeply missed."

Before becoming a weatherman, Mr McCaskill worked as a meteorologist in the RAF and later moved to the Met Office.

He began working at the BBC at a time when it was not common for presenters to have regional accents, but went on to become popular with TV audiences.

He was once voted Britain's sexiest weather presenter and even had his own Spitting Image puppet, which he said in an interview was "the greatest compliment".