Gary Lineker's mother has passed away.

Gary Lineker with mum Margaret (c) Instagram

Gary Lineker with mum Margaret (c) Instagram

The 'Match of the Day' host took to his Twitter account last night (29.09.15) to post a touching tribute to his mum Margaret.

He wrote: "I am profoundly saddened to tell you that my wonderful, beautiful mother has left us. She will though live on in my heart and mind. #RIPMum (sic)."

The 54-year-old presenter and former footballer also posted a snap of him posing alongside his late mother on Instagram.

He captioned the photograph: "She wouldn't want sympathy. She wouldn't want tears. She would want a gin and tonic. Cheers Mum #RIP (sic)."

Gary's brother Wayne - who previously appeared on the reality show 'The Only Way Is Essex' - also took to social media to reveal that while he's devastated at her passing, he's pleased she's now at peace.

He wrote: "Today at 1pm my precious Mum passed away. I was holding her hand when she stopped breathing. She has had a very tough and painful 2 years since she lost her husband and my step Dad Peter. Not just the pain of losing her loved one but the intense medical problems she had.

"She has suffered with Renal and Kidney problems having dialysis 3 times a week amongst a mountain of other problems. It was a special moment when she left as she was so very peaceful. She has had her family and closest friends by her side. Finally she will be happy. I will miss her dearly. Love forever. (sic)"

Gary had to pull out of presenting Saturday's (26.09.15) 'MOTD' as his mother - who lived on the Isle of Wight - was "very poorly".


Tagged in