A sports writer known as the “heartbeat” of cricket on his patch has died aged 68.

Tributes have been paid to John Curtis, pictured, who had covered Worcestershire County Cricket Club since his teenage years.

John began his career on local weeklies in the West Midlands before joining the Worcester News, where he covered Worcester City Football Club.

He joined the John Moxley agency in Birmingham in 1989, covering football and cricket, later moving to the Press Association and, more recently, became Worcestershire CCC’s club journalist.

Last year, the press box and the club’s New Road ground was renamed in honour of John, his John Moxley colleague Mike Beddow, and former Worcester News cricket correspondent Chris Oldnall.

John died on Thursday after a short illness.

Worcestershire chief executive and former England cricketer Ashley Giles said: “John was the heartbeat of the press box and a treasured part of the Worcestershire family.

“His passion for the club was matched only by his kindness, humility and tireless commitment to telling our story with care and authenticity.

“Whether it was the first ball of the season or the last word of a report, John brought New Road to life for many.

“We will miss his words, his warmth, and his friendship deeply.”