ITV News journalist Emily Morgan dies aged 45

ITV News journalist Emily Morgan has died at the age of 45 following a 'short battle' with lung cancer, ITN has confirmed.

Emily had worked for ITN for 23 years and was the ITV News health and science editor. She was at the centre of the channel's Covid-19 reporting, visiting hospitals and interviewing health workers throughout the pandemic.

In a statement, Andrew Dagnell, ITV Network News editor said ITN was deeply saddened by her death. Paying tribute, he added that she was an 'exceptional journalist' and 'true trailblazer'.

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"Her reporting was instrumental in exposing the immense pressure and strain that NHS workers were under, and she became a trusted voice for the public during an unprecedented time," Mr Dagnell said. "Emily’s passion for the role was evident in everything she did and her work was a constant reminder of why journalism matters. Her dedication to informing and educating our viewers will continue to inspire all those who were privileged to work alongside her."

The statement continued: "Our thoughts are with Emily’s family. Emily was proud to be a journalist, but she was even more proud of her family. She adored them. We are sending them our love and support at this unthinkably difficult time.

"Emily was an exceptional journalist, a devoted mother and wife and a true trailblazer in our field. Her friendship, her professionalism and her enormous contribution to our industry and to the public conversation will not be forgotten.”

ITV News royal editor Chris Ship described Emily as 'talented, kind' and 'full of humanity.' In a tweet, he said: "With a very heavy heart, we announce the death of our much loved friend and colleague