THE sporting and broadcasting world has paid tribute to a much-loved journalist who has died at the age of 78.

Keith Macklin, who died in hospital on Saturday after a long illness, became known as the voice of Lancashire sport in a distinguished media career that spanned more than 50 years.

After starting in local newspapers, Keith went to work far and wide in radio and television, covering everything from crown green bowling, to the football World Cup in 1974, and rugby league.

His career also saw him present Songs of Praise and Pot Black on television, and in 1982 he helped found Red Rose Radio, now known as Rock FM.

More recently, in 2007 he released his autobiography – A Two Horse Town – detailing his half-century of experiences in broadcasting, and lived in Feniscowles in Blackburn.

Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler, who succeeded Keith as the football commentator at Yorkshire Television in 1976, said he had been “a tough act to follow”.

He said: “He had an excellent voice and sense of occasion.

“He was always very kind. He was an easy man to get along with.

“And you could talk to him about anything, not just about football.

“He was a proper television professional and a proper radio professional as well.”

Former Blackburn Rovers striker Kevin Gallagher said Keith had been one of the most respected men in his profession.

He said: “He had a great career in sports journalism. I remember him when I first came to Blackburn.

"He was always there doing his thing.”

Lancashire Telegraph sports editor Paul Plunkett said: “Keith took me under his wing when I was a young sports reporter covering Blackburn Rovers 20 years ago.

"He was a real inspiration. A true gent whose enthusiasm for sport rubbed off on all around him.”

Rock FM head of news Claire Hannah said: “He was an absolutely lovely man, a true gentleman and the voice of authority on everything as far as sport was concerned.”

A funeral service will be held at Blackburn Cathedral in the next few weeks.