A POPULAR TV sports broadcaster and journalist from Cookley has died at the age of 68.

Sports reporter and commentator Steve Lee covered football and cricket for Sky and BBC Midlands for more than 30 years.

During his career, Mr Lee covered the 1998 World Cup for BBC TV Sport and worked regularly on Match of the Day and Football Focus.

During his career, Steve covered the 1998 World Cup for BBC TV Sport and worked regularly on Match of the Day and Football Focus. He also worked for Channel 4 and 5.

Mr Lee died on Sunday. He was a father-of-three and a grandfather.

His daughter Rebecca confirmed the news on her Facebook page. She wrote: "It is with the heaviest heart that I share that we lost our lovely Dad, Steve Lee, very suddenly on Sunday.

"We are coming to terms with the news and will share details of the funeral when we are able to. Love you Dad."

Tributes have been paid to Mr Lee on social media from several news outlets and colleagues that worked with him over the years.

Dan Johnson a fellow BBC sports reporter and lecturer at the University of Worcester said: "Our journalism students were really lucky to have the opportunity to learn from a real legend when Steve Lee came in.

"He had so much passion for his craft and so many great stories from his extensive career with the BBC and Sky. 
"He was really engaging whilst also being down to earth. He is a big loss to the world of broadcasting but will be remembered fondly by us all."

BBC Midlands Today posted on Twitter: "It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of our former sports presenter Steve Lee at the age of 68. A superb broadcaster who will be sadly missed."

Kidderminster Harriers Football Club wrote: "Condolences from all at Aggborough to the friends and family of Steve Lee, who has sadly passed away.

"Steve was a regular at Harriers early in his career and returned regularly to cover significant stories in later years. RIP."