Ray French, regarded by many as the voice of rugby league, has died at the age of 85.
French commentated on the sport on BBC television for 32 years, having taken over from the great Eddie Waring in 1981.
As a player, he won four caps for England in rugby union in 1961, before switching to league and making four appearances for Great Britain.
French played more than 200 times for his hometown team St Helens, winning the league and Challenge Cup double in 1966, and finished his career at Widnes.
After turning to broadcasting, he commentated on every Challenge Cup final between 1982 and 2008, before retiring from TV duties following the 2013 World Cup. In recent years, he suffered from dementia.
Jonathan Davies, the Welsh cross-code rugby legend who worked with French as a co-commentator for the BBC, said: ‘Really sad news of the passing of my friend and legend rugby player and broadcaster.
Ray French, widely known as the iconic ‘voice of rugby league, has passed away aged 85
‘I know Ray had not been well for a while so I hope he passed peacefully. Had many great days with Ray. He was such a lovely man. I hope the RL appreciated what great work did for the game.’
Barrie McDermott, the former Leeds and Great Britain star and Sky Sports pundit, added: ‘A genuine rugby league legend and the voice of our sport for so many.
‘A master of his trade, a man who had time for everyone. Always good with me, generous with his advice and kind with his time. Thoughts with his family and many friends. Rest in peace Ray.’
