Veteran television newsreader Ian Ross has died after a battle with pancreatic cancer, according to reports.

The former Seven News presenter, 73, had routine blood tests before Christmas last year which resulted in the news that the pancreatic cancer had spread to his liver and he had five months to live.

According to News Limited, he chose not to undergo chemotherapy, instead looking at alternative medicines.

Following his diagnosis he spoke to Fairfax Media about his outlook.

“While I agree with the diagnosis, I do not necessarily agree with the prognosis,” he said.

“I have decided that the only way to handle this friggin’ nightmare is to remain as positive about it as I possibly can and to get back to leading as ‘normal’ a life as possible. Right now I feel healthy and well, I have no symptoms … but I don’t know how long that will last for.”

Channel Seven released a statement following the beloved anchor’s death: “The entire team at Seven News is deeply saddened by the death of our wonderful colleague, friend and mentor, Ian Ross.

“Roscoe – as he is known to everyone – delivered Sydney’s Seven News for seven years before he retired in 2009.

“In a career spanning five decades, Roscoe was one of the most popular newsreaders in Australian television history – a perfect mix of on-road experience and on-camera charisma.

“More than that, he was respected, trusted, and with a warm personality viewers loved. What you saw on television was the man behind the scenes. He was loved by everyone in the newsroom.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to Roscoe’s partner Gray and his family.”

Ross retired in 2009 after a 50-year career in television and radio.