The BBC have released a statement after their legendary commentator and TV host John Virgo died. Tributes poured in on Wednesday morning as the ‘voice of snooker’ passed away at the age of 79, after decades of work for the broadcaster after his retirement as a professional snooker player.
He enjoyed an 18-year career, winning the 1979 UK Championship in addition to four non-ranking titles. Virgo co-presented TV programme Big Break from 1991 to 2002 with Jim Davidson, and took up a role commentating on snooker for the BBC, with his last message coming at the Masters two weeks ago.
The BBC’s statement read: “Some sad news to bring you. Snooker legend and BBC commentator John Virgo has died aged 79. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues.”