Tributes pour in for BBC Sport journalist Neil Bell

Tributes are pouring in for BBC Sport journalist Neil Bell who sadly passed away this morning.

“It’s with great sadness we have to report that our sports reporter Neil Bell passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning after a battle with cancer,” said BBC South East Sport.

The Twitter posting added: “Neil was a broadcasting legend, a supreme sporting storyteller and a wonderful person.  Put simply, Belly was the best.”

Charlotte Richardson, who works for Margate FC in their marketing and communications team tweeted: “Such sad news.  Neil was always full of warmth and passion for local sport and an absolute pleasure to work with.  Truly was the best and thoughts are with his family and colleagues at this horrible time.”

Former Gillingham midfielder Nicky Southall Tweeted: “Outstanding sports reporter and a great fella.  Thoughts are with his family.”

Alex Hoad from the Kent Messenger added: “Extremely sad news.  Nice man and a real pro.  A great loss to our industry.  Thoughts with friends, family and colleagues.”

Our thoughts go out to all of his family, friends and work colleagues during this sad time.