Football commentator Simon Hanley has passed away, aged 60.
A tweet from LaLiga TV read: "A voice that’s so well recognised in the world of football, you will be missed. Rest in Peace Simon Hanley. 1962 – 2022."
Hanley was a regular commentator in English for Spanish football. He last commentated on Real Madrid's LaLiga clash with Osasuna in early October.
Graham Hunter, who worked with Hanley on LaLiga TV, posted an impassioned video on Twitter to reflect on the death of his friend. "At times like this, when you're deeply sad, it's hard to know what's for the best," he said.
"But for son Jordi, his brother James, and for Belen, all of whom he loved, and for those of you who only knew Simon on the screen or his voice, commentating on LaLiga Television, I think it's important to say that the man we lost on his 60th birthday today was gospel on rock n rock, knew music inside out, struck a devilishly good golf ball - he was very talented at that sport - and passionately loved what he was doing at LaLiga TV.
"He was a central pillar in making LaLiga TV loved and successful. So many of us owe him a lot professionally... Simon was a massive character and a strong man. He's gone too soon."
Fellow LaLiga TV commentator Andy West tweeted: "This is a horrible way to end 2022. Simon was an excellent commentator, a smooth presenter, a strong leader behind the scenes and a fantastic colleague. Saying 'he will be missed' is woefully inadequate but also very true."
"Sad and unexpected news in the commentary world to end the year," tweeted commentator Dan O'Hagan.
Commentator Alex Fitzpatrick added: "Terrible news. Simon gave me my break on LaLiga TV and was always generous with his time and advice. A fantastic commentator and pundit and a man who above all had a huge passion for Spanish football. My thoughts go out to those close to him May he rest in peace."
Journalist Toni Padilla wrote: "Simon Hanley has left us. A wonderful chap with a delightful English sense of humor and contagious passion. We enjoy a lot with him either on @LaLigaTV, BeINSports or Gol. We will remember him like this, with a smile."
"Simon Hanley died today. I have precious memories of the time we shared at El Club. An endearing guy and a great professional discovery. And a loyal fan, the kind who came to work in a Newcastle shirt the day after relegation. We will miss him," wrote football writer Axel Torres.
Hanley worked alongside the likes of Hunter, Guillem Balagué and Gaizka Mendieta on LaLiga TV. He was a regular face for British fans looking for their fix of Spanish football.
Hanley commentated on matches as well as acting as a presenter for LaLiga TV's panel show, which features broadcasters, journalist and ex-players.
Having been born in Morpeth, north-east England in 1962, he grew up as a Newcastle United fan. Later in life he moved to Spain, where he became synonymous with the country's top flight.
