Rainbow presenter Geoffrey Hayes has died aged 76

Geoffrey Hayes, who hosted long-running children's programme Rainbow, has died aged 76.
Rainbow presenter Geoffrey Hayes with co-stars Bungle, Zippy and George. Pic: Myung Jung Kim/PA WireRainbow presenter Geoffrey Hayes with co-stars Bungle, Zippy and George. Pic: Myung Jung Kim/PA Wire
Rainbow presenter Geoffrey Hayes with co-stars Bungle, Zippy and George. Pic: Myung Jung Kim/PA Wire

The actor and TV presenter's manager Phil Dale said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that the family announce that Geoffrey passed away in hospital, with his wife, Sarah, and son, Tom, by his side.

"Geoffrey Hayes was an English television presenter and actor, best known as the host of Thames Television's top-rated children's show Rainbow, and for his portrayal of Detective Constable Scatliff in the successful TV Series Z Cars for the BBC.

Geoffrey Hayes when he appeared in panto in Durham in 2015.Geoffrey Hayes when he appeared in panto in Durham in 2015.
Geoffrey Hayes when he appeared in panto in Durham in 2015.
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"The family would like to express their thanks to the many fans over the years, as it always gave Geoffrey so much pleasure to know that he and his Rainbow team had given so much fun to TV and theatre audiences over the years.

"There will be no further comment at the moment, and it would be appreciated if the privacy of Geoffrey's family is respected at this most difficult time."