ST HELENS has paid tribute to Granada Reports presenter Tony Morris who has died after a battle with kidney cancer aged 57.

The award-winning journalist was a well-known face having presented ITV’s regional news show for the past 17 years.

He died at Bury Hospice on Saturday, August 1, with his daughters by his side having been diagnosed with kidney cancer last year.

St Helens Star:

Tony with fellow Granada reports presenter Lucy Meacock

His professionalism and humour saw him become a much-loved figure across the region.

He had previously worked as a radio presenter and had served as an officer in the RAF and was a dad to two daughters, Natalie and Becky.

Born in Portsmouth, Tony had resided at North Road, St Helens for a spell during his life and became a popular well-liked figure in the town.

In 2005 he was even unveiled as a new signing for Saints - albeit only for April Fool's Day.

St Helens Star:

Tony 'signing for Saints' with coach Ian Millward at Knowsley Road

Tony was featured in the Star when he visited schools in the town for events.

These included, in May 2012, when he gave a talk to Haydock English Martyrs School pupils.

St Helens Star: St Helens Star:

A special tribute programme was aired on ITV to commemorate Tony's life on Monday evening.

People across St Helens have been paying their respects to Tony.

Ex-Saints captain Paul Sculthorpe said on Twitter: "Just heartbreaking watching that tribute to such a lovely man. Had the pleasure of many an interview with Tony and was always such an infectious character #RIPTony.

"Well done @lucymitv ..don’t know how you got through that x"

St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust said in a tribute: "Like so many, we're saddened to hear about the death of Tony Morris. We remember Tony's visits to the Trust for @GranadaReports with great fondness. He always made time for our staff and patients. His professionalism, warmth and sense of humour will never be forgotten.

On social media, Star readers have expressed their sadness condolences following Tony's passing".

Valerie Atherton wrote: "So sad loved him he had a great sense of humour RIP Tony you will be missed."

Jayne Milligan added: "God bless a top man he was so lovely , condolences to the family x will be missed on TV news".

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Vanessa Lynn said: "Aww, so sad to hear this. What a lovely man, I always loved him reading the news. Professional and kind, with a smile as big as the camera"

Meanwhile, "Lynn Ball added: "So terribly sad. Granada Reports will never be the same. Deepest sympathy to Tony's family and friends xx"

Debs Jakens said: "Such sad news my thoughts are with all his family... might not live in the area anymore but remember bumping into this wonderful man in Tesco, he was genuinely a lovely gentleman".

Paying tribute on Twitter, Tony's daughter Natalie said: “We lost our incredible dad on Saturday morning.

“He was more than a parent, he was also our best friend.

“We are utterly heartbroken, but so grateful for the time we had with him.”