'Tough one to take' - Black Country star's sadness at death of snooker legend
Black Country star Reanne Evans has spoken of her sadness at the death of snooker’s John Virgo, at the age of 79.
Virgo had a long snooker career and won the UK Championship in 1979 but will be remembered by many for his work as a broadcaster and commentator.
Virgo co-hosted the BBC's snooker programme Big Break between 1991 and 2002 alongside Jim Davidson for more than 200 episodes and the comedian said Virgo brought "so much joy" to the people who were around him.
Dudley’s Evans, a 12-time women's world champion, said on X: "Oh JV. You will be missed. Thinking of Rosie and your family at this sad time. This is a tough one to take. You will always be the best ever to me. God bless you. What a guy."
Wordsley-born seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan said Virgo was a friend that he loved spending time with, writing on X: "Finished my match to get the news that JV has passed away. Love to Rosie, Brooke and Gary. Such a great mate who I loved spending time with, absolutely gutted."
Meanwhile, Davidson, posted on Instagram: "Heartbroken to hear that my great mate John Virgo has passed away at 79. What a character, what a talent. From our time together on Big Break, to the snooker commentary chair, you brought so much joy to so many. Rest easy, John. You will be missed."
Former world champion Shaun Murphy, who has also featured as a BBC commentator, wrote on Instagram: "I first met John in 1994, filming Junior Big Break. He then went on to become a friend and colleague. I learned so much from him whilst sharing a commentary box. The voice of snooker will be sadly missed. Rest In Peace John Virgo."
Jimmy White played Virgo 11 times in their professional careers, posted a picture of the two on Instagram accompanied with the message: "Goodnight JV".
