Dale Winton dead: Star wished for Supermarket Sweep return months before death

The TV icon died yesterday at his home, his agent announced.

Dale was best known for hosting British game show Supermarket Sweep from 1993 to 2001.

The show was then revived again from February to August 2007.

And in one of his final interviews, in which he also spoke about his health issues, Dale admitted he would love to see the popular quiz show return to screens.

The national treasure told the TV Times back in January: "Well, the company that made it originally took it to the TV festival in Cannes recently and it created a lot of interest.

“I loved doing that show so if they wanted to do it again I would.”

The popular gameshow saw three teams of pairs begin with 60 seconds to collect shopping items.

They would attempt to add as much time as possible to their clock by answering questions and riddles posed by Dale.

The time they accumulated determined how long they had in the ‘Big Sweep’ to run around and pick up as many food and household times in their allocated time slot.

But in the interview, Dale added he would be “devastated” if a younger host was chosen to present the show.

He continued: "Then again, I wouldn’t be surprised if they wanted a 22-year-old to present it.

"I’d be devastated but, you know, that’s what happens.

"But I’ll always feel passionate about Supermarket Sweep because if it wasn’t for that show I wouldn’t have done anything I’ve done since!”

Dale became a household favourite from his role on the show with many of his well-known catchphrases still being remembered today.

One of his rhymes was: "The next time you're at the checkout and you hear the beep… [beep-beep], think of the fun you could be having on Supermarket Sweep!"

In every instalment he would also say: "Good morning shoppers!”

"Go wild in the aisles,” was another classic Dale would shout at the contestants as they launched themselves into the game.

After Supermarket Sweep, Dale went on to hose the National Lottery series In It To Win It in 2008.

Yesterday, Dale’s long-term agent Jan Kennedy announced the devastating news that the popular presenter had died.

She said: "It is with great sadness that we can confirm the passing of Dale Winton who died at home earlier today.

“While we know many will share this terrible loss, we ask that you respect the family's privacy at this time of grief."

Dale’s cause of death is currently unknown.