Former Ipswich Evening Star and East Anglian Daily Times journalist Sam Reynolds has died aged 77.

He worked for the sister papers for more than 50 years, and was deputy sports editor when he officially retired in 1994.

Sam joined the papers in 1949, after completing his national service in the RAF.

He started his career as a news journalist, but quickly transferred to the sports department, where he worked for the Evening Star, the EADT and the Green 'Un.

After his retirement he continued working on the Green 'Un until 2004, when ill health forced him to call it a day.

Head of sport Nick Garnham, who worked alongside Sam for many years, said: "Sam was a great colleague to work with.

"He was very thorough in everything he did and a good mentor to me.

"He was always cheerful and was well liked and respected by everyone who knew him.

"I am sure I speak for all his ex-colleagues when I say that our thoughts are with his family at this sad time."

Outside work, Sam was a talented keyboard player who was very well known in local musical circles.

In his late 60s, he took up jogging, and completed the Woodbridge 10k road race in a respectable time at the age of 70.

Sam's wife, Gwen, died in 1991. He leaves four daughters and nine grandchildren.