An ITV News anchor has died aged 66, with his colleagues announcing the news on air. Granada Reports announced that Ralph Blunsom had died, with the news confirmed on air by Rob Smith.
Ralph worked for both BBC North West and Granada during his time as a broadcaster, covering both local and national stories. Tributes have poured in, with his co-star, Victoria Grimes taking to X.
Victoria posted a picture of Ralph which had “1958-2024,” written across it, in front of a lit candle. She said: “A candle burning in @GranadaReports newsroom tonight for our Ralphy. A first class journalist, hilarious good company and a loyal friend. We will miss you more than you can ever know.”
BBC Breakfast editor Richard Frediani shared: “All my thoughts with the family and friends of Ralph Blunsom, the former BBC North West Tonight and Granada Reports reporter who has died. He was always a lovely, friendly, fun colleague and he will be missed by many.”
ITV news reporter Jam Williams-Thomas shared pictures he had taken over the years with Ralph, writing: “Ralph. I had the absolute privilege of being your colleague, but more importantly your friend. We shared so many funny times and I can still hear your laugh now. You were always a champion of me and others coming up in the industry. Love you lots mate and will miss you greatly.”
BBC News’ Nick Garnett added: “That’s terribly sad news. Known and loved by so many people in the broadcast industry in the NW – he literally worked everywhere. Sending condolences to his family and friends. Rest peacefully Ralph.”
One viewer commented: “so sorry to hear about the sad passing of Ralph Blunsom. Feel like I grew up watching him bring us reports of the moment. My thoughts are with all his family and friends @GranadaReports and local news.” “RIP to a very kind and funny man who was a North West regional news legend – Ralph Blunsom, ITV News, Prestonnnnnn,” said another.
Ralph joined Granada in 2003, having previously spent time with BBC North West. Over the course of his 21 years at the network, he was often the first reporter live on the scene from major incidents. In February 2004, just one year after joining Granada, Ralph covered the tragic news of the Morecambe Bay cockle-pickers dying, when 21 people drowned during an incoming tide.
In 2018, he broadcasted live from Winter Hill, Lancashire during the record-breaking wildfires burning across the UK, which saw more than 250 acres of the stunning moorland burn.