Racing broadcaster John McCririck dies aged 79

Racing broadcaster John McCririck dies aged 79

UNITED KINGDOM

McCririck is hailed as “the face of British horse racing” for his role as betting guru for ITV and then Channel 4 Racing.

Racing broadcaster John McCririck has died at the age of 79, his family has announced.

McCririck, who was known for his outlandish dress sense, was hailed as “the face of British horse racing” for his role as betting guru for ITV and then Channel 4 Racing.

The pundit was axed from Channel 4 in 2012, prompting him to launch an  unsuccessful age-discrimination case.

John McCririck
Image:McCririck underwent dramatic weight loss after falling ill

He also achieved fame through appearances on television entertainment programmes including Celebrity Big Brother and Celebrity Wife Swap.

His appearance on television last year sparked concern following his dramatic weight loss, which he later explained had followed a serious chest infection and complications from the flu virus.

McCririck is survived by his wife of 48 years, Jenny, who he often referred to by the nickname “The Booby”.

John McCririck and wife Jenny McCririck
Image:McCririck and his wife Jenny McCririck

In a statement, McCririck’s family confirmed he died at a London hospital on Friday and described him as an “award-winning journalist and broadcaster” and “for many years the face of British horse racing”.

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