A POPULAR children's entertainer has died following a battle with Covid-19.

Tony Junior, who performed at events across the North East, has died in hospital.

He was hospitalised earlier this month.

Organisers of Tynedale Beer Festival have paid tribute to Tony, saying he was "a big part of Saturday afternoon at the festival, bringing laughter and fun to children and adults alike".

Ian Cave, Chair of the Festival Committee said: "Tony had been entertaining festival goers for the last 5 years.

"His friendly, happy character and boundless enthusiasm for what he did was evident in how much his audience loved him.

"He was a joy to work and will be much missed by us all.”

Steve Keys, compere of the festival and long time collaborator of Tony's said: "Tony was always heard before he was seen and always surrounded by laughter.

"We worked together on many events including the festival and his smile was as big as the marquee.

"That smile will be how we all remember him most".