One of the most recognisable faces of Midlands sports broadcasting has died.

Tributes have been paid to Bob Hall, who presented sports coverage for ITV Central, Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday and Black Country Radio.

A cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

Hall, whose broadcast career spanned four decades, joined the Central sports team in 1981 and left in 2004, returning to freelance reporting and making numerous appearances on Sky Sports’ flagship Saturday football show fronted by Jeff Stelling.

TV presenter and newsreader Nick Owen said: “Shocking news about former ITV colleague Bob Hall. Terribly sad. RIP Bob.”

A spokesperson for Black Country Radio said: “We’re sad to hear the news that veteran ITV Central presenter Bob Hall has passed away.

“Bob presented our Ask The Leader events for Dudley Council before the Covid pandemic and was a brilliant broadcaster and a lovely man. He’ll be missed.”

Radio presenter and fellow sports reporter Tom Ross said: “So sad to hear that former ATV/Central sports presenter Bob Hall has passed away.

Hugely respected broadcaster

“Top journo and most importantly a top man. Thoughts with his family at this saddest of times. RIP Bob.”

Liz Hannam, head of news at ITV Central said: “Bob was quite simply a brilliant broadcaster, most at home in front of a camera and microphone.

“He had an encyclopedic knowledge of our region’s sport and a wonderful warm and eloquent delivery which connected directly with the viewers.

“He was also a fabulous colleague, always helpful, caring and generous. He will be much missed.”

Gary Hughes, Sky Sports’ director of football said: “I’m truly saddened to hear about Bob’s passing.

“I grew up watching Bob on Central Television – he was a hugely respected broadcaster with one of the great voices in the industry. A consummate professional, Bob was a highly valued member of the Sky Sports family and he will be sorely missed by all.”