India, Sept. 7 -- Tributes have been paid to Stephen Walker, the former BBC Northern Ireland political correspondent and acclaimed author, following his death on Sunday at the age of 61. His death was announced on social media by close friend and BBC colleague Mark Carruthers, presenter of BBC NI's The View, who said Walker's family had asked him to share the news.

"Stephen passed away at home this morning surrounded by people he loved and who loved him," Carruthers wrote. "He was a wonderful husband, father, brother and son, a fine journalist and author, and the very best of friends. We are all heartbroken, but grateful for his life so well and fully lived."

Stephen Walker Journalist: How was Stephen Walker's death announced?

Walker, ...