Ralph Blunsom: ITV News presenter dies aged 66 as co-star announces death live on air

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ITV News reporter Ralph Blunsom has died at the age of 66.

The ITV Granada reporter’s death was confirmed by his co-star Rob Smith, who announced the sad news to viewers at the end of Tuesday evening’s show (October 22). Smith said: “We leave you tonight with some very sad news about one of our much colleagues here at Granada Reports. We’re very sorry to have to tell you about the passing of our great friend Ralph Blunsom.

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“Ralph reported on many of the biggest stories of our generation for Granada Reports and previously for BBC North West Tonight. He was a first class reporter and a real character, whose presence and humour you couldn’t ignore. Ralphie, we will all miss you, goodnight.”

Blunsom was known to news viewers in the north-west of England, and fronted some of the biggest stories in the region during his time at the BBC and ITV. Tributes have poured in for the journalist.

ITV Granada reporter Ralph Blunsom has died aged 66.ITV Granada reporter Ralph Blunsom has died aged 66.
ITV Granada reporter Ralph Blunsom has died aged 66. | ITV

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.”

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ITV Granada reporter Victoria Grimes added: "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." BBC News broadcaster Nick Garnett also paid tribute to Blunsom, saying: "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."

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