Alan Hawkshaw: Last News

Channel 4's Gogglebox is set to air with a new theme tune tonight, marking the first change in 11 years since the show's launch.

STRICTLY Come Dancing fans were not impressed with the BBC centenary special this evening. The dance competition honoured the occasion with routines to classic BBC theme songs and references to popular shows.

Countdown is arguably one of the most memorable after starring on daytime TV for more than 40 years. But it turns out the theme tune to the innocent Channel 4 quiz show has a less than desirable story behind the creation of its now legendary theme music.

Countdown, Grange Hill and more, has died aged 84.The Leeds-born musician was admitted to hospital with pneumonia last week, and died early yesterday morning (October 16).The news was revealed in a tweet from talent agency DNA Music Limited, in which Hawkshawk’s wife Christiane said: “It was heartbreaking to say goodbye to Alan, my husband of 53 years and the love of my life.”She added: “We spent the last few hours gazing at each other with love, holding hands, no need for words.“I told him he and I were forever, and even though he has been unable to speak for the past two months, he managed a few ‘forevers’ and I knew he was at peace.”We are devastated to share this news

LEGENDARY TV music composer Alan Hawkshaw has died at the age of 84. Tributes poured in for the creator of the Countdown, Grange Hill and Channel 4 News theme tunes today.

Channel 4 News, Grange Hill and Countdown.In the 1960s and 1970s, he worked for the KPM production music company composing and recording many stock tracks.As well as this, he was an arranger and pianist.In 1979, the composer scored a number one single on the Billboard Hot Dance Music Play chart with Here Comes That Sound Again.Many fans and colleagues of the star have flocked to Twitter to pay tribute.John Whaite explains why he has 'no attraction' to Strictly’s JohannesStrange Brew podcast commented: "So sad to hear Alan Hawkshaw has died."Alan's legacy is immense and will live on through brilliant TV, film themes and in hip-hop samples."Trox added: "RIP Alan Hawkshaw. Easily one of the best composers of all time.