A regional sports journalist known for his entertaining commentary style has died aged 70.

Tributes have been paid to Bob Hunt, who covered Forest Green Rovers Football Club’s rise from the Southern League to the Football League for BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

Bob, pictured, also sometimes covered Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, as well as other spotts including rugby union.

Bob handed the microphone at Forest Green Rovers to his son Billy four years ago after poor health forced him to step down.

Billy told the Stroud Times: “Dad loved being a part of Forest Green. Him and the club were a perfect match, doing things another way.

“Whilst his commentary may not have been the most professional he focused on making people laugh and ensuring people were entertained, no matter what the result.

“I couldn’t ask much more then working with my dad, commentating on a club we both support. The memories of going up and down the country with him and working together at Wembley to see Forest Green get promoted will live with me for a lifetime.

“There will be many memories of dad and I know he would have put a smile on anyone’s face who knew or listened to him.”

Stroud Times editor Ash Loveridge, who worked as a co-commentator alongside Bob’s son Billy, added: “Bob gave so much to Forest Green in his own unique style.

“Even when he got the occasional tongue-lashing from various managers over the years, it never ruffled his feathers and he always managed to laugh it off.

“I remember one commentary where he was actually ejected by an over-zealous Forest Green steward, but eventually made it back into the ground to resume his commentary.

“Ultimately, he was a very kind man, who loved life and people and I’ll never forget him.”