Football clubs pay tribute to former BBC sports reporter George Andrews

George Andrews covered Port Vale matches for the BBC, commercial and community radio stations

Stoke City and Port Vale football clubs have paid tribute to a local sports reporter after his death.

George Andrews was in his mid-60s and died in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a short illness, his family said.

Mr Andrews began working for BBC Radio Stoke in the 1980s, reporting on Stafford Rangers, before going on to cover Port Vale matches.

He later moved to local commercial and community stations.

Mr Andrews was described as an "ever-present figure" by Port Vale Football Club

Stoke City Football Club said they were "saddened to learn of the passing of local media stalwart, George Andrews".

"A familiar voice to local football fans for more than 40 years, George will be sadly missed by all who knew him," a spokesperson added.

In another tribute on X, Port Vale Football Club said: "We are saddened to learn of the passing of broadcast legend, George Andrews.

"An ever-present figure in the Vale Park press box, George will be sadly missed by all."

Former Port Vale manager John Rudge told BBC Radio Stoke that Mr Andrews was a character.

"He used to dress up in all sorts of gear...he was a character and a personality, who will be sadly missed," he added.