Bush ex-spokesman Tony Snow dies

Tony Snow was a well-known conservative commentator

Former White House press secretary Tony Snow, 53, has died of cancer.

He resigned as President George W Bush's spokesman in August 2007 - after just 17 months in the job - citing financial reasons.

Mr Bush described him as "a devoted public servant and a man of character". "He brought wit, grace, and a great love of country to his work," he said.

The father-of-three had joined President Bush's team from Fox News TV in April 2006.

Mr Snow had his colon removed in 2005. In 2007, he announced that his cancer had recurred and had spread to his liver.

Weeks later, he returned to work telling journalists:

"Not everybody will survive cancer, but on the other hand, you have got to realise you've got the gift of life, so make the most of it."

In his tribute, President Bush said: "All of us here at the White House will miss Tony, as will the millions of Americans he inspired with his brave struggle against cancer."

Critic

An outspoken conservative presenter, he was the first Washington commentator to be appointed to the White House role - replacing Scott McClellan.

Tony Snow was keen to make the most of his time

He had served as chief speech writer for President George W Bush's father when he was president.

He had also worked as a columnist for USA Today and editorial page editor of the Washington Times.

Before joining the White House staff, Mr Snow criticised Mr Bush's "lacklustre" domestic policy. On one occasion, he described the current US president as "something of an embarrassment".