When people think of Michael Aspel, they often throw back the criticisms "dull", "old-fashioned" and "ordinary". Here at DS however, we prefer to use the words "distinguished", "all-rounder" and "dependable". Whether he was handing out his big red book on This Is Your Life or bringing celebs down to the ground on Aspel and Company, the Battersea-born star always had a relaxed, easy-going charm - not too dissimilar to your granddad after a few too many glasses of sherry.

In the world of entertainment, Aspel has been there, done that and got the T-shirt. Whether it's quiz shows (Give Us A Clue, Blockbusters), primetime TV (This Is Your Life, Strange But True?) or interviewing the Prime Minister (Maggie Thatcher), he always did it with such a casual nonchalance, it was impossible not to be in awe of his unflappable cool. His ability to move from the cheeky smut of Miss World in the '60s and '70s to the granny-friendly comforts of Antiques Roadshow in the '00s should provide inspiration and a vital lesson for all young TV presenters.

Click along our gallery below for some impressive snaps of Michael 'Cool As A Cucumber' Aspel.