Extravagant TV scientist dies aged 83

THE television scientist Dr Magnus Pyke has died in a nursing home. He was 83.

Dr Pyke - known for his extravagant gesticulations and lively chatter - had been in failing health for some time and died on Monday at the home in Putney, south-west London, Bessie White, his daughter said.

Dr Pyke found fame in the 1970s as the presenter of the science programme Don't Ask Me. He wrote more than 20 books in a bid to make the world of science more understandable.

At the age of 67 he won the Pye award for best newcomer to television, after retiring from a career as a food scientist and nutritionist.

'He would like to be remembered as a communicator - someone who was very keen and good at getting information over clearly and cutting through nonsense,' Mrs White said.

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