Kathryn Apanowicz said the funeral will be a private occasion

His partner Kathryn Apanowicz said the arrangements for the TV star's funeral would not be made public.

But she added that the public would be welcome to pay their respects at the service which will be in September.

The presenter, who lived in Ilkley, West Yorkshire, died following a heart operation at Leeds General Infirmary.

Honour from Queen

In a statement, Ms Apanowicz appealed on behalf of the family for the funeral to "remain a private occasion" to enable those closest to him "to grieve privately".

The Bradford-born star fronted the Yorkshire Television news programme Calendar for 27 years, but was best known for hosting the Channel 4 show Countdown.

He was admitted into hospital seven weeks ago suffering from pneumonia.

On Friday, before the grand final for the 53rd series of Countdown, Channel 4 will broadcast a documentary looking back at Whiteley's life which was filmed last year.

Last November he was honoured with an OBE from the Queen, who is said to be a Countdown fan.