BBC Breakfast host announces very sad death news in moving tribute

BBC Breakfast honoured the legendary rugby league commentator Ray French during Sunday's programme.

Presenters Rachel Burden and Roger Johnson passed over to Hugh Ferris to deliver the latest sports updates as he broke the heartbreaking news to viewers.

He revealed: "Ray French, the voice of Rugby League on the BBC for almost four decades, has died at the age of 85."

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Audiences were then treated to footage from a classic rugby match featuring Ray's distinctive commentary, showcasing his devotion to the game.

Hugh continued: "After a career that saw him represent England and Great Britain in both rugby codes, he turned his hand to commentary, becoming one of the most distinctive voices in sport."

"He was made an MBE for services to rugby league in 2011 before his eventual retirement in 2019. There is rarely a more distinct voice for any sport, Roger and Rachel."

Handing back to the two BBC Breakfast hosts, Roger paused to offer some touching remarks, reports the Express.

He said: "Absolutely, our thoughts are with his family and loved ones."

Over the years, Ray had been fighting dementia, though it remains unclear when the sporting legend received his diagnosis.

The Rugby Football League, the English game's governing body, honoured the icon on X, posting: "Ray made an immense and unique contribution to the sport of Rugby League - and is best remembered as the BBC's Rugby League commentator from 1981 to 2008."

Tributes quickly began to flood in, with one individual remarking: "Very sad, RIP and condolences to his family. Absolutely fantastic commentator on Rugby League."

Another posted: "RIP Ray. You were a big part of my enjoyment of watching RL as a kid."

A third person penned: "Legend of the sport and a thoroughly down-to-earth nice bloke. Loved listening to his commentaries on @BBCSport and @bbcmerseyside, the way he called the game was as if he took you with him to the match. R.I.P. Ray, and thanks for the memories."

BBC Breakfast can be viewed on BBC iPlayer.