A photographer who originally made his name as a champion boxer before going on to work for a regional daily for 40 years hs died aged 63.

Hugh Russell won bronze medals at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in Edmonton and the 1980 Olympics in Moscow, both in the flyweight division, before claiming the British bantamweight and flyweight titles as a professional.

He later became a photographer and joined the Irish News where he was to remain for the next 40 years, forging an award-winning career and capturing many famous images during the Troubles.

He died on Friday following a short illness. His death was subsequently announced by the newspaper.

Hugh Russell, right, during his boxing days. Photo: Pacemaker Press

The News said in a statement: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our much-loved colleague Hugh Russell this morning after a short illness.

“Hugh, a Commonwealth and Olympic medallist, and an award-winning photographer, was the heartbeat of boxing in Belfast and a much loved colleague with The Irish News for 40 years.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Hugh’s wife Kathy, his children Hugh Junior, Hayley, James & Calum, and his entire family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.

Editor Noel Doran added: “Hugh Russell was an outstanding photographer and a magnificent boxer but for his Irish News colleagues he was most of all a great friend and a wonderful colleague.

“It’s fair to say that Hugh was loved by everyone he worked with during his forty-year career at the paper, and he was equally revered by our readers and all those who had the privilege of dealing with him professionally and personally.

“I’m devastated by his loss and the thoughts and prayers of everyone at The Irish News are with his wife Kathy and his family. Our champion has fought his final round.”

Hugh in his later career as a press photographer

Among Hugh’s best-known photographs was one of Gerry Conlon of the Guildford Four celebrating with supporters after walking free from prison in 1989 following the quashing of his wrongful conviction as an IRA bomber.

As well as his press photography, he was also a chief official in the British Boxing Board of Control, overseeing many big fight nights in Belfast

Posting on X, North Belfast MP John Finucane said:  “Very sad to hear the news that Hugh Russell has passed away after a short illness. Whether it was through his work at the Irish News or as a huge figure in the boxing world, Hugh was widely liked & respected.

“A true gentleman, my thoughts are with his wife Kathleen & all his family & friends.”