A former regional journalist has died aged 87 after being rescued from a river.

Tributes have been paid to Mike Carey, who began his career on the Derby Telegraph and later became the Daily Telegraph’s chief cricket correspondent.

Mike, pictured, also hosted BBC Radio Derby programme Memorable Melodies for almost 20 years during his career.

His death was confirmed today after he was rescued from the River Derwent near Darley Abbey Mills, Derby, on Saturday.

It is understood that Mike had problems with his vision in his latter years and walked his dog in nearby Darley Park, according to the Derby Telegraph.

A spokesperson for BBC Radio Derby said: “Mike was a former presenter on BBC Radio Derby for almost 20 years, where he hosted Memorable Melodies on Sunday afternoons.

“He loved being on the radio and having the opportunity to share his passion for music.”

During the late 1970s, Mike also spent time as press officer for Derbyshire County Cricket Club.

A club spokesperson said: “[We are] deeply saddened by the news of the death of Mike Carey, a locally-based journalist with strong connections to the county club.

“Everyone connected with Derbyshire CCC would like to extend their condolences to Mike’s family and friends.”