Sad loss: Horse racing legend John McCririck dies at the age of 79
HORSE RACING and broadcasting legend John McCririck has passed away at the age of 79.
The award-winning journalist, affectionately known as Big Mac, was a cornerstone of Channel 4's racing coverage for more than 25 years.
A huge personality, he became a household name and was popular with punters with his familiar deerstalker hat, sideburns and cigar.
He appeared in a number of high-profile TV shows, including Celebrity Big Brother, but he left Channel 4 Racing under a cloud in 2012 before losing an age discrimination case against the station.
A statement from his family said:"Award-winning journalist, broadcaster and for many years the face of British horse racing, John McCririck, passed away at a London hospital on Friday, July 5 aged 79.
"John's interest in horse racing and betting began at Harrow where he was the school bookie.
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"On leaving he worked for an illegal street bookmaker then legally on-course where he learned the art of tic-tac, clerking bets and making a book.
"John cut his teeth in racing journalism on 'Formindex', a tipping sheet otherwise known as 'The Golden Guide'. He went on to write for the Sporting Life where he won British Press Awards, 'Specialist Writer of the Year' and 'Campaigning Journalist of the Year'.
"John joined ITV in 1981 for Shergar's Derby then became a household name as part of the Channel 4 Racing team when they took over coverage of the sport in 1984.
"His flamboyant broadcasting style from the heart of the betting ring proved extremely popular with racing fans and beyond.
"John continued to work for Channel 4 Racing until 2013, as well as satellite channel At The Races.
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"In this time he transcended the world of racing, appearing on numerous mainstream TV news and light entertainment programmes including Question Time, The Weakest Link, Celebrity Wife Swap and Celebrity Big Brother in 2005 and 2010.
"Despite suffering ill health in recent months, John continued to make several TV and radio appearances.
"He is survived by Jenny, his wife of 48 years. His funeral will be private."
The British Horseracing Authority paid tribute to McCririck, tweeting: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of John McCririck.
"Throughout a lengthy and colourful career, one thing was always clear - his enduring passion and love for the sport of horse racing.
";He was a recognisable figure and resonated with the wider public. Our condolences go to his family."