Roger Cook death: The Cook Report investigative journalist Roger Cook dies aged 83

His family said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Cook, who died peacefully on Saturday after a short illness.

“Alongside a distinguished and award winning career in journalism, Roger was first and foremost a beloved husband and father.

“He will be deeply missed by all of us, and we ask for privacy as we navigate this difficult loss.”

Cook joined ITV in 1985, and the eponymous The Cook Report ran for 16 series and more than 120 episodes, as he pursued criminals, con-men and corrupt officials.

The show was the most popular current affairs programme on television at the time, with an audience of up to 10 million.

The Cook Report exposed child pornography, Northern Ireland protection rackets, baby trading in Brazil and the illicit ivory trade.

He also looked at illegal immigration, war criminals in Bosnia and those behind 9/11 and other terrorist plots.

Cook also exposed the Russian black market in weapons-grade plutonium.

A number of his programmes were followed by successful police prosecutions or major changes in the law.

New Zealand-born Cook was injured many times in the course of making his programme and exposing wrongdoing.

A statement from ITV said: “In a career spanning an incredible five decades, Roger Cook’s ground-breaking approach to investigative journalism made him one of broadcasting’s most trusted and respected figures.

“On his eponymous current affairs programme, The Cook Report, Roger worked tirelessly to expose criminal wrongdoing and injustice, helping to drive important and lasting changes in the law.

“His fearless contribution to journalism will long be remembered, and we send our deepest sympathies and condolences to his wife, family and friends at this difficult time.”