Professor Stephen Hawking, the man who stirred interest in all things scientific across the globe, has died.
His family released a statement in the early hours of Wednesday morning (UK time) confirming his death at his Cambridge home.
His children, Lucy, Robert and Tim said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today.
“He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years.
“His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world.
“He once said, ‘It would not be much of a universe if it wasn’t home to the people you love.’ We will miss him for ever.”