'A remarkable man': Tributes to veteran journalist Ken Reid who has died, aged 69
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Tributes have been paid to veteran journalist Ken Reid who worked for a number of years in the early 1990s in the then
Mr Reid then joined UTV where he held a number of senior positions including its long-time political editor in the north.
His family confirmed he died at the age of 69 after an illness.
Mr Reid reported on many of the worst atrocities of the Troubles before chronicling the peace process.
Northern Ireland's first minister Michelle O'Neill led the tributes to Mr Reid, describing him as a "true giant in local journalism".
Taoiseach Simon Harris also expressed his sadness at the passing of the veteran journalist.
Mr Reid had previously spoken publicly about his battle with leukaemia and received well wishes from former prime minister Tony Blair among others.
He was married to Liz and was father to three children — Gareth, Sarah and Sophie — and a grandfather.
Mr Reid's career in journalism began in 1977 at and he was later sports editor and editor at the .
He then worked for the before joining UTV in 1994, where he held a number of senior editorial positions over 27 years before his retirement.
During his time as political editor, he interviewed seven prime ministers and well as US presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.
Ms O'Neill said: "Ken was an award-winning journalist who was incredibly dedicated to his work, having covered some of the most historic moments in our politics.
"His strength and courage in the face of illness served as an inspiration to many, as he became a powerful advocate for raising awareness of cancer.
"We mourn the loss of a dear friend, and a remarkable man."
DUP leader Gavin Robinson described Mr Reid as a "colossus is his field".
He added: "Ken was a special journalist in Northern Ireland as someone who managed to get to the heart of all the major political stories and cover the difficult issues whilst retaining the respect, admiration and affection of representatives from all political opinions.
"He had contacts locally and nationally built up over many, many years and his passing will be deeply felt by many of us."