TRIBUTES have poured in for popular broadcaster, Albion fan and Argus columnist Peter Brackley.

The much-loved commentator died on Sunday aged 67

He was best known as the voice of Channel 4’s coverage of Italian football in the 1990s.

Former footballers, coaches, journalists and fellow broadcasters paid tribute and described Peter as an outstanding commentator with a great sense of humour.

Match Of The Day host and former Tottenham striker Gary Lineker tweeted: “Saddened to hear that Peter Brackley has passed away. Loved listening to him do Italian football in particular. A real Serie A of a commentator. #RIPPeter.”

Brighton and Hove Albion chief executive Paul Barber said: “So many of us here at the club knew Peter well.

“He was a hugely talented, knowledgeable, funny and, above all else, a good man.

“We will miss him hugely.

“Our condolences go out to Peter’s family, including our colleague and his nephew Paul, and all of his many friends.”

Radio host and former footballer Rodney Marsh tweeted: “So sad to hear the news of the death of Peter Brackley. Genius writer, impressionist and friend RIP.”

Peter started his media career with BBC Radio Brighton, where his claims to fame included being one of the first to interview Brian Clough when he took over as Albion boss.

He then worked for ITV and he began covering some of the biggest football events, including the 1984 European Championships, the 1986 European Cup Final between Steaua Bucharest and Barcelona, along with the 1986 FIFA World Cup finals.

The Argus’s sports reporters have also sent their tributes.

Brian Owen tweeted: “Very sad news that veteran broadcaster, #bhafc fan and Argus columnist Peter Brackley has died.”

Andy Naylor said: “Interrupting last day of holiday to add my condolences to the family of career broadcaster, raconteur and, in more recent times, Argus columnist Peter Brackley. #bhafc. Witty, warm and genuine. A sad loss.”

Award-winning broadcaster Jim Rosenthal tweeted: “RIP Peter Brackley. Lovely character and colleague. A fine broadcaster and a quite brilliant mimic and after-dinner speaker. Brackers gone much too soon.”

Peter was also remembered for his sharp humour. About ten days ago, he joked with The Argus sports desk via email about being in a hospital ward with a Crystal Palace fans as he made arrangements to watch the win over West Ham on television.

Some of Peter’s fans said his brilliant commentating brought back good childhood memories.

BBC Sport journalist Jake Humphrey tweeted: “A piece of my adolescence was lost today with the death of the great Peter Brackley.

“I imagine plenty of people feel exactly the same.”

Former Brighton and Chelsea midfielder Steve Sidwell tweeted: “Met Peter Brackley a number of times on my travels, a true great who was so insightful and had a great sense of humour.

"Loved being in his company and there was never a dull story to be told. My sincere condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.”