ITV's Technical Director, Roger Pearce has died while on the job in Qatar, the network has confirmed.
Sharing the news, ITV Sports presenter Mark Pougatch said: "We have some very sad news to bring you from here in Qatar. ITV's Technical Director Roger Pearce, who was here embarking on his eighth World Cup.
"Roger and his team are the brilliant people who bring the pictures into your homes and make it all happen. Roger was a hugely respected figure in the TV sports broadcasting industry."
Mark added: "For ITV, he's been instrumental in the logistical planning and delivery of Rugby World Cups as well as the football World Cups and the Euros.. He always had a smile on his face and left a smile on your face, he was utterly dedicated, professional, charming and hugely popular, he'll be missed by so many people inside the industry and at home."
In a statement shared with The Mirror, Niall Sloane, ITV Director of Sport, said: "The ITV Sport team are devastated by Roger's passing.
"He was a brilliant Technical Director and a wonderful colleague and friend. His service to ITV for over 40 years was a testament to his loyalty to the company. Our thoughts are with his family and those closest to him."
Roger had covered a wide range of topics over the course of their career and was responsible for the planning and output of major sporting events coverage, including the World Cup, UEFA Europ Championships and the Rugby World Cup.
The former ITV Meridian star died on assignment in Qatar, just five weeks before his retirement, a friend announced on Twitter.
Neil Stainsby said: "So sad to hear of the passing of my friend and former colleague at ITV Meridian, Roger Pearce. He died on his last assignment in Qatar before retirement in 5 weeks' time. RIP Roger."
One football fan said: "RIP Roger Pearce. Never met you but they say you brought us the football on ITV. Rest in peace."
"Very sad to hear of the passing of ITV's Roger Pearce. All the tributes are so deserved. Such wonderful service he gave," commented another.
A third tweeted: "R.I.P. Roger Pearce. Thoughts and prayers are his family, Friends and People of @ITV @itvnews @itvfootball and ITV colleagues who at in Qatar during these difficult times, May he rest in peace."
Roger started his career as a technical apprentice and support engineer back in 1973 before moving to ITV in 1979 where he started as a Broadcast Engineer in Scotland. He joined the national network in June 2001 as Technical Producer for sports, before eventually going on to become Technical Director in August 2007.
Since joining the industry, he had worked at ITV for over 43 years and became a key part of their output.
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@mirror.co.uk or call us direct 0207 29 33033.
