British snooker commentator Ted Lowe dies aged 90

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Lowe started his broadcasting career in the 1940s

British snooker commentator Ted Lowe has died at the age of 90. Lowe, who received the nickname "Whispering Ted" due to his broadcasting style commentated on many of snooker's biggest events including the 1985 World Championship final between Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor. His death has come on the same day as the first session of the 2011 World final.

His wife, Jean commented on his death. She said "His health had been deteriorating for the last 10 weeks. He went into a hospice a week ago and I never left his side. But I could see he was slowly going. He still loves snooker and was watching it on TV."

Tributes have been paid to Lowe by several snooker players and commentators. John Virgo said "He set a standard for us all. He was wonderful, he had an impish sense of humour and while cricket had its John Arlott and Wimbledon had its Dan Maskell, we had Ted Lowe. He was one of the BBC greats. It's a sad day for snooker and he'll be sadly missed."

Jimmy White also posted a message on social networking site Twitter saying "Still in shock and so saddened. Absolutely gutted. He was a great friend of my dad's and an absolute gentleman. I loved him dearly."

As well as commentating on snooker tournaments Lowe hosted the BBC television programme Pot Black. Lowe is also remembered by viewers for his quote after colour televisions started to appear. During a game he said "He's going for the pink, and for those of you with black-and-white sets, the yellow is behind the blue."

Sources