Jim Davidson and John Virgo for Big Break / BBC
Snooker commentator and Big Break star John Virgo has died in Spain at the age of 79.
As a player, Virgo was renowned for his trick shots and won the UK Championship in 1979 – and after his professional career ended in the ’90s, he became a commentator for the BBC.
Virgo also became known to a wider audience as the referee on snooker gameshow Big Break, hosted by Jim Davidson from 1991 to 2002, and was still commentating on matches as recently as last month.
Posting on social media, Jason Francis, chairman of World Seniors Snooker, said: “Heartbreaking to share the news that we’ve lost the great ‘JV’ John Virgo this morning, he passed away in Spain. Rosie and Brooke-Leah would like everyone to know. Our hearts go out to them both, Gary and the grandchildren.
“JV was doing what he loved to do right up until the end, entertaining everyone. Such an important person in my life but in our sport in general.
“An amazingly loyal friend to me, and someone you felt was sat with you at the match when he was commentating on TV. Hard to take this one… one great person who touched so many lives and loved the game. We will never forget you bud. RIP JV.”
Virgo is survived by wife Rosie, children Gary and Brook-Leah and several grandchildren.
