Gordon Sparks was being treated for cancer at a hospice in Plymouth until his death (Picture: Rex Features)
BBC Radio Devon presenter Gordon Sparks has died at the age of 61, it has been confirmed.
The broadcaster, who presented the breakfast show, was being treated for cancer at St Luke’s Hospice in Plymouth until his death.
Announcing the news, Stephanie Marshall, head of BBC South and South West, said: ‘It is a very sad day for BBC Radio Devon. Our hearts go out to Gordon’s friends, family and faithful listeners.
‘Gordon was a broadcasting legend – honest and brave through the toughest times. He will be missed dearly.’
The presenter, affectionately known as Sparksy, notably commentated on Plymouth Argyle games for 32 years.
Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies was among the first to pay tribute to Sparks, tweeting: ‘Sad to hear we’ve lost @SparksyOnRadio Gordon Sparks the sporting voice of Plymouth, fellow janner & friend.
Sparks commentated on Plymouth Argyle games for 32 years (Picture: Rex Features)
‘He’ll be very missed especially by all those at@HeraldPAFC RIP Sparkzy x.’
Sparks’ colleague Angela Kalwaites, who also presented on the station, said: ‘We will all miss our friend and colleague so much – he was definitely one-of-a-kind with a massive heart and sense of humour.’
Macmillan cancer support
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You can contact their helpline on 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week from 8am to 8pm), use their webchat service, or visit their site for more information.
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The broadcaster, known as Sparksy, presented the breakfast show on BBC Radio Devon.