An ITV news anchor has died at the age of 66 prompting a flood of tributes for the broadcasting star.
It was announced on Tuesday night by ITV News’s northern division, Granada Reports that broadcaster Ralph Blunsom had sadly passed away.
Mr Blunsom worked for both BBC North West and Granada during his career.
Co-star Victoria Grimes took to X- formerly Twitter – to begin a string of tributes to ‘our Ralphy’.
She said, sharing a photo taken in Granada’s newsroom with a picture of Mr Blunsom that read ‘1958-2024’: ‘A candle burning in @GranadaReports newsroom tonight for our Ralphy. A first class journalist, hilarious good company and a loyal friend. We will miss you more than you can ever know.’
It was announced on Tuesday night by ITV News’s northern division, Granada Reports that broadcaster Ralph Blunsom had sadly passed away
Blunsom’s career had seen him also work for BBC North West as well as Granada during his time as a broadcaster
During Mr Blunsom’s 21-year stint at ITV, he often reported on hard news stories and was first on the scene before anyone else
BBC Breakfast editor Richard Frediani said: ‘All my thoughts with the family and friends of Ralph Blunsom, the former BBC North West Tonight and Granada Reports reporter who has died. He was always a lovely, friendly, fun colleague and he will be missed by many.’
ITV news reporter Jam Williams-Thomas shared a number of photos he had taken over the years with Ralph, adding: ‘Ralph. I had the absolute privilege of being your colleague, but more importantly your friend. We shared so many funny times and I can still hear your laugh now. You were always a champion of me and others coming up in the industry. Love you lots mate and will miss you greatly.’
BBC News’ Nick Garnett said: ‘That’s terribly sad news. Known and loved by so many people in the broadcast industry in the NW – he literally worked everywhere. Sending condolences to his family and friends. Rest peacefully Ralph.’
Co-star Victoria Grimes took to X- formerly Twitter – to begin a string of tributes to Ralph who has died aged 66
Mr Blunsom joined Granada in 2003, having previously spent time with BBC North West.
During his 21-year stint at the network, he often reported on hard news stories and was first on the scene before anyone else.
An example of the late broadcaster’s coverage included covering the tragic news of the Morecambe Bay cockle-pickers where 21 people drowned during an incoming tide in February 2003 – just one year after Mr Blunsom had joined the Granada team.