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.
“His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world.
“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.”
As reported by The Independent Stephen Hawking death: Physicist heralded as one of the greatest minds ever to live dies age 76
