TV presenter Rick Jones, known for his work on the BBC, has died at the age of 84.
Friends and fans have paid tribute to the star, who rose to fame in the 1970s after playing Yoffy on the children’s show Fingerbobs.
Illustrator Garry Vaux wrote on Twitter: ‘I’m very sad to report that Rick Jones, aka Yoffy from Fingerbobs has passed away aged 84.
‘I initially interviewed him for my book many years ago and we stayed in touch. He was a huge creative spirit, a talented musician and a lover of life. I shall miss him greatly’.
One fan wrote in tribute: ‘Every person of a certain age remembers “Yoffy lifts a finger and a tortoise head peeps out”. RIP to Fingerbobs Rick Jones.’
‘Gutted that Rick Jones has passed away,’ another said. ‘I send my love to his family. He has a place in my heart. He was a part of my childhood.’
One more added: ‘So sad to hear of the passing of Rick Jones. Very much played a big part in the lives of any child growing up in the UK in the 70’s.
‘A great musician and devout Arsenal fan. RIP Rick.’
Jones started his TV career on the BBC children’s show Play School, in which he played the guitar and sang.
He went on to star in Fingerbobs, which was first broadcast in 1972 and saw Jones making finger puppets and creating songs for children.
Only 13 episodes of the programme were ever made, but they were often repeated until 1984.
Canadian-born Jones also appeared in TV shows including Watch and Play Away.
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