Sir David Frost, the British TV journalist, has died of a heart attack on board Queen Elizabeth. He was 74.

Sir David was due to give talks about his career on board the ship. His interview of former US president Richard Nixon in 1977 was recently voted the best broadcast interview of all time. During his long career, he had interviewed the past seven British prime ministers and seven American presidents.

Cunard President and Managing Director Peter Shanks said in a statement: "Sir David Frost was a remarkable journalist and broadcaster. Cunard had a proud association with him over many years. On behalf of us all at Cunard Line I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, family and friends."

Queen Elizabeth left Southampton on 31 August on a 10-day Mediterranean cruise to Civitavecchia (Rome), the company said.