Snooker legend John Virgo has died aged 79

John Virgo has died.

The snooker icon has passed away at the age of 79 in Spain just after commentating on the Masters for the BBC last month.

No cause of death have been provided at the time of writing.

In a statement from Snooker Legends - headed up by Jason Francis - the promotions company said: “Heartbreaking to share the news that we've lost the great 'JV' John Virgo this morning, he passed away in Spain.

“Rosie [his wife] and Brook-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.”

The World Snooker Tour added: “Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79.

“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV.”

In his professional career, Virgo reached the No.10 spot in the world snooker rankings, having bested Terry Griffiths to win the UK Championship in 1979.

Virgo had also won the 1980 Bombay International, the 1980 Pontins Professional and the 1984 Professional Snooker League.

Virgo famously co-presented the BBC snooker show Big Break with Jim Davidson, which aired from 1991 to 2002.

He retired from the sport in 1994, and was subsequently inducted in the World Snooker Tour Hall of Fame three years ago.

Following his retirement, Virgo and his wife Rosie Ries moved to Spain in 2020 in the hopes the warmer climate would help ease his pain from a long-term neck injury.

Virgo is survived by his wife Rosie, and his children Gary and Brook-Leah.