Legendary 'voice of boxing' commentator Harry Carpenter dies aged 84

London, Mar 23(ANI): Former BBC boxing commentator Harry Carpenter has died at the King's College Hospital, London, following a prolonged illness.

The 84-year-old, dubbed the Voice of Boxing, died in the early hours of Saturday.

Carpenter's lawyer David Wills said that the legend had been unwell since last summer, when he had a minor heart attack.

"The funeral has not been arranged, but will be a family funeral, to be followed by a memorial service in London," The Sun quoted Wills, as saying.

Carpenter had joined the corporation in 1949 and worked for almost half a century before retiring in 1994.

He was presenter of programmes such as Sportsnight (1975-1985), Grandstand and Sports Personality of the Year. He also anchored coverage of Wimbledon from 1967 until 1993.

His rapport with British boxing great Frank Bruno was well known.

Bruno's agent said that the former heavyweight champion was "very upset" at the news. He [Carpenter] was obviously part of Frank's up-and-coming career from the early days when Harry used to commentate, particularly at the Royal Albert Hall, on Frank's boxing," the agent said.

"Frank has many acquaintances, but not many real friends. Harry Carpenter was a friend," the agent added. (ANI)