Former television presenter Frank Bough dies aged 87

Former television presenter Frank Bough has died aged 87.

One of the best-known television personalities in the 1970s and 1980s, Bough presented the BBC's Grandstand show and was part of the launch of the BBC's Breakfast TV show in 1983.

As a former Oxford soccer Blue, he was a keen sporting broadcaster and anchored six World Cups, six Olympics and at least a dozen Five Nations championships for the BBC.

Bough also worked for ITV as well as other major networks including Sky and London Weekend Television.

His career with the BBC ended in 1988 when he was sacked over a scandal when the press exposed his use of drugs and prostitutes.

Bough later spoke of his regret over the incident and said his behaviour had been "exceedingly stupid".

A spokesperson for the BBC said: "Frank excelled as a live presenter with the BBC for many years and we are very sorry to hear of his passing. We send our condolences to his family and friends."

A family friend told the broadcaster that the presenter died on Wednesday in a care home.

Tributes to Bough were posted online by fellow BBC journalists and other broadcasters.

Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan paid tribute, saying: "RIP Frank Bough, 87. Star of Grandstand, Nationwide and Breakfast Time.

"His career was ruined by scandal, but he was one of the great live TV presenters. Sad news."

Jeff Stelling, who presents Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday, tweeted: "I met Frank Bough when I was a young reporter. He was kind, helpful and generous with his time.

"His brilliant career was blighted by scandal but I hope people will remember how fine a broadcaster he was. One of the very best in the business."

TV astrologer Russell Grant said: "I am deeply saddened at the loss of an old television friend: Frank Bough was a great man to work with. We launched #BBCBreakfastTime in January 1983.

"Always there for advice and support. ‘They’ said we wouldn’t get on but we absolutely did – chalk n cheese! See you, Frank."