ZOE Ball has paid a touching tribute to her former Radio 1 colleague who passed away on Tuesday night after a lengthy battle with illness.

The 50-year-old, who lives in Newick, described her friend Simon Willis as the "naughtiest, daftest dear chap" who was "the best raconteur".

The pair worked together at Radio 1 in the 1990s, forming a close bond.

Following Simon's death, Zoe took to social media to pay tribute to her friend.

The Radio 2 breakfast show host said: "Heartbroken to hear our dear friend Willy, Simon Willis from our Radio 1 Breakfast Show team, passed away last night.

"He’d been poorly for some time. He was the naughtiest, daftest dear chap, deliciously hilarious, the best raconteur and a total joy to work with and indeed play with.

"He took us on some wild, wonderful adventures with the show.

"Oh the tales, the Oscars, ski trips, the Euros, the Brits. Forever in our hearts Showbiz Willis. The best of the best baby."

Hundreds of people replied, sharing their fond memories of Simon and sending their support to Zoe.

Among them was current Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills.

He said: "A brilliant, hilarious, lovely man. I would not be at Radio 1 if it wasn’t for Simon. The very best."