Queen's tribute as Mirror royal editor James Whitaker dies at 71

James Whitaker, former royal editor for the Daily Mirror has died at the age of 71 following a battle with cancer.

The Queen led the tributes from around the world to the legendary royal correspondent whose family were with him when he died in intensive care at 8am.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "Those in the Royal Household who knew him were extremely sad to learn of his death."

James, met the Queen for a final time at a reception in November ahead of the Diamond Jubilee.

Whitaker, who was also a familiar face on TV discussing the Royal Family, also wrote a book on the relationship between Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

As well as the Daily Mirror, he also worked at The Sun, The Daily Mail and The Daily Express during his career.

Mirror editor Richard Wallace paid tribute to Whitaker, saying: "James was a true Fleet Street legend who became famous around the world as a royal reporter.

"His colleagues often joked that at times he appeared grander than the royals themselves, which, of course, he loved."