Sky Sports commentator Nigel Pearson has died at the age of 52.

Pearson commentated as part of Sky Sports’ coverage of the darts for more than 15 years after joining in 2006 and was also an experienced speedway presenter and commentator.

Steve Smith, Sky Sports’ executive director of content, said: “The thoughts of everyone at Sky Sports are with Nigel’s family and friends.

“Nigel was a consummate broadcaster with a distinctive voice, loved by our audiences across darts and speedway over many years. He brought deep knowledge and expertise to his presenting and commentary and his unique style lifted the sports he covered.

“His passing will be deeply felt by his many friends and colleagues at Sky.”

Pearson was also a radio commentator and was part of talkSPORT from the launch of the station in 1995.

talkSPORT described him as “a talented commentator, reporter and the brilliant voice of our darts coverage”.

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Ian Danter, one of his colleagues at the station, described him as “so genuine” and “such a great person to be around”.

Rod Studd, Pearson’s Sky Sports darts commentary colleague, wrote on Twitter: “The most awful and desperately sad news.

“I have many fond memories of time spent in Pancho’s company. My love and condolences to Nigel’s family and friends.”

Phil Taylor, Michael Van Gerwen and Gerwyn Price were among the darts players tweeting their sadness at the news.

Matt Porter, chief executive of the Professional Darts Corporation, said: “We’re all deeply saddened to learn that Nigel has passed away and send our sympathies to all who knew him.

“Nigel was an extremely popular figure across darts and a range of sports and well-respected throughout the media for his unique style. He’ll be missed by us all.”

Pearson also worked with British Speedway as their press officer, and was a big fan of West Bromwich Albion Football Club, which called him “an inspirational broadcaster”.

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