has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late BBC executive and television presenter, Alan Yentob, who sadly died over the weekend. The TV legend's family confirmed the news on Sunday in an emotional statement. The long-serving arts broadcaster and documentary-maker, died aged 78.

Tom, 84, took to social media and issued a statement following the news as he shared some kind words about his late friend and broadcaster. Taking to Instagram, the singer penned: "The very sad loss of Alan Yentob is immeasurable. What a talented, knowledgeable, instinctive and wonderful man. He opened unexpected doors for me for which I am forever grateful. A true rarity in the creative world, the likes of which will not be seen again."

He ended the reflective tribute: "Rest in peace Alan, you will be missed, Tom Jones".

Tom had previously featured on Alan's BBC Two programme Imagine where the broadcaster sat down with the crooner in a candid interview in 2010.

The It's Not Unusual hitmaker discussed his ascent from humble beginnings as a miner's son in south Wales to becoming a chart-topping sex symbol.

Alan profiled and interviewed a wide range of important cultural and creative figures over the years, including David Bowie, Charles Saatchi, Maya Angelou and Grayson Perry, for TV series such as Omnibus, Arena and Imagine.

He also served as controller of BBC One and Two, and the organisation's creative director and head of music and arts.

His wife Philippa Walker broke the news of his death, sharing: "For Jacob, Bella and I, every day with Alan held the promise of something unexpected. Our life was exciting, and he was exciting.

"He was curious, funny, annoying, late, and creative in every cell of his body. But more than that, he was the kindest of men and a profoundly moral man. He leaves in his wake a trail of love a mile wide."