Thunderbirds creator Gerry Anderson has passed away at the age of 83.

He is said to have died peacefully in his sleep at midday today (December 26).



> 'Thunderbirds', 'Captain Scarlet' - Gerry Anderson classics: Watch

Anderson's son Jamie Anderson wrote a tribute to the man who was also behind Captain Scarlet and Stingray, saying on his blog: "I'm very sad to announce the death of my father, Thunderbirds creator, Gerry Anderson.

"He died peacefully in his sleep at midday today (26th December 2012), having suffered with mixed dementia for the past few years. He was 83."

Diagnosed with mixed dementia two years ago, Anderson had moved into a care home in October, after his condition worsened.

The creator leaves three children from former marriages - Joy, Linda and Gerry Junior - as well as further son Jamie and widow Mary.

Digital Spy championed Thunderbirds this year in Tube Talk Gold, describing the show as part of TV's cultural heritage.

Anderson's eight-project Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons has also been heralded as a TV masterpiece by DS.

Watch the famous Thunderbirds opening sequence below:

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