TOM O'Ryan, the award-winning racing journalist and broadcaster, has died aged 61, family friend Richard Fahey announced on Twitter.

A former jockey and well-regarded apprentice on the Flat, O'Ryan was deeply respected within the sport and held a long-term reporting roles with the Racing Post - he was named Racing Journalist of the Year in 2002 - and the Press newspaper, in York. He also wrote articles for The Northern Echo and in particular the Racing North publication.

O'Ryan was also an anchor and analyst for Racing UK, a columnist for www.sportinglife.com, a qualified jockeys' coach and a work-rider for Malton-based Fahey.

Fahey said: "Devastated to say that Tom O'Ryan passed away earlier today. Can't say how much we will all miss him. We've lost the voice of the north.

"Tom's family have asked me to share the news. Tom was an incredible horseman & brilliant writer. Racing is a poorer sport without him in it."

Jonjo O'Neill said he was "heartbroken and lost for words" by the news of O'Ryan's death, while fellow jumps trainer Donald McCain said he was "always a pleasure to deal with and a real gentleman".

Leading Flat jockey Jamie Spencer described O'Ryan as a "proper man and a writer full of integrity". National Hunt rider Tom Scudamore said O'Ryan was "a gentleman and wise man of the press room".

Racing commentator Richard Hoiles tweeted: "So sorry to hear of Tom O'Ryan's passing. Few people in racing will have helped so many with his time kind words and advice. A sad day."

O'Ryan is survived by his wife, Wendy, and his brother, Robin, who is travelling head lad for Fahey.