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LEGENDARY Channel 4 broadcaster Alastair Down has died at the age of 68.
The talented racing writer has been remembered as “one of the most decorated and cherished” of our time.
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Down commentating at the Cheltenham races in 2002GettyHis death comes just one month after Cheltenham Racecourse named their press room after him in recognition of his work.
It is not yet known how Down sadly passed away.
During his stellar career, Down was named Racing Writer of the Year on five occasions – making him the only journalist to receive the title that many times.
Down was born in 1956 and attended Tonbridge School.
He then went on to study at York University and after graduation attempted to start a betting syndicate.
But it was short-lived and Down joined The Sun before moving onto The Sporting Life in 1981.
Down was also a long-time member of the Channel 4 Racing team, where he became lead presenter in 2001.
Racing Post editor Tom Kerr paid tribute to his friend and colleague.
He said: “Everyone at the Racing Post is devastated to hear of Alastair’s death.
“We have lost a great friend and ally who delighted readers and colleagues alike for decades with his magnificent writing, passion for the sport and sense of fun.
“It is so poignant that just last week we gathered with Alastair at his beloved Cheltenham to celebrate the renaming of the press room in his honour.
“Alastair was in ebullient mood among friends, family and colleagues.
“While it is shocking that he has died so soon after this wonderful gathering, it is so fitting that his last act involved a few glasses of good Burgundy and the company of many loved ones at the racecourse he cherished above all others.
“It is the sort of send-off that Alastair, in his pomp, might have written for himself.”
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Alastair Down has died aged 68News Group Newspapers Ltd
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