Kirkham, who turned 100 in February, launched the magazine with business partner Leslie Stone in 1953 and was TTG’s original editor.

He passed away peacefully at his home in Kent on Saturday morning (8 June) where he lived with his wife Margaretha.

Daniel Pearce, TTG Media CEO, said the company "would not be here today without the brilliant work of Ted, Leslie and all previous Travel Trade Gazette teams”.

“All of us at TTG Media are devastated today to hear of the sad passing of Ted Kirkham,” said Pearce. "As the founding editor of TTG, he set up the Travel Trade Gazette with Leslie Stone and was the driving force behind its huge growth throughout the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s.”

Pearce and TTG editor Sophie Griffiths visited Kirkham to present him with a special TTG Travel Award marking his 100th birthday ahead of TTG’s redesign in April, where Kirkham gave his seal of approval to the new-look magazine.

“Ted’s passing is obviously very sad but it was so great he got to the age of 100, received a personal card from the Queen, and was still living at home with his wife Margaretha when he died," added Pearce.

"We send our deepest condolences to Ted’s family, and to everyone who got to know him over his 100 years. All the very best to you, Ted, on your next journey."