14/03/2018

Stephen Hawking Dies Aged 76

Stephen Hawking, the world renowned physicist, has died "peacefully at home" aged 76.

Mr Hawking's family announced he died in Cambridge in the early hours of this Wednesday morning, 14 March.

At the age of 22 Mr Hawking was given only years to live when he was diagnosed with a rare form of motor neurone disease.

The disease left Mr Hawking in a wheelchair and he gradually lost use of his motor functions.

He was famed for his work as a scientist and authored a number of highly popular books, including A Brief History of Time.

In a statement his children, Lucy, Robert and Tim, said: "We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today.

"He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years.

"He once said, 'It would not be much of a universe if it wasn't home to the people you love.' We will miss him forever."

A book of condolence is due to be opened at Gonville and Caius College in Cambridge, where Mr Hawking was a fellow.

(MH)

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