ITV News Granada Reports announces sad death of presenter, 66, on air as co-stars pay tribute

ITV presenter Ralph Blunsom has died aged 66, the broadcaster has announced.

The news of Ralph's death was announced on Granada Reports last night (Tuesday) by presenter Rob Smith, the Mirror reports. Ralph worked as anchor for the ITV's North West and Isle of Man programme.

He also worked for the BBC North West during his time as a broadcaster. Tributes from his co-stars have since poured in following news of his death.

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Last night, Granada Reports colleague Victoria Grimes shared a picture of a candle with a card with Ralph's photo on on X and wrote: "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. xxx".

BBC Breakfast editor Richard Frediani shared: "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 string of snaps he had taken over the years with Ralph and said: "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."

Ralph joined Granada back in 2003, having previously worked with BBC North West. Over the course of his 21 years at the network, he was often the first reporter live on the scene from major incidents.

In February 2004, just one year after joining Granada, Ralph covered