Former BBC Grand National commentator John Hanmer passed away at the age of 82 earlier today. Read on to learn how did John Hanmer die, what happened to him, and what was the cause of his death.
Hanmer was a highly venerated personality in racing due to his services in the industry. He was the lead voice when the runners crossed the Melling Road for years. Subsequently, he got the nickname John “Melling Road” Hanmer.
Who was John Hanmer?
John Hanmer was a veteran of the BBC’s racing coverage who was best known for his work on the Grand National. He was a part of the commentary team from 1972 to 2003. He also worked as Sir Peter O’Sullevan’s BBC commentary assistant between 1971 and 1997.
Hanmer is famous for working alongside a panel of legends including O’Sullevan, Julian Wilson, and Jim McGrath. He mainly acted for the BBC as a “spotter” for them but then took over the microphone after the live races had been shown on Grandstand.
Hanmer also worked as a jockey’s agent for the riders like Steve Cauthen and Mick Kinane. He also worked on the role of paddock commentator for the BBC alongside Jimmy Lindley.
How did John Hanmer die?
John Hanmer died on Sunday, November 27, 2022. He was 82 years old at the time of his death. As per the reports, Hanmer died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. The tragic news of his death was confirmed in a social media post.
Ever since the news of his passing got viral, fans and friends are paying tribute to John Hanmer. Everyone is remembering him as a legend and the most beautiful voice to ever commentate on the sport.
John Hanmer dead: What was his cause of death?
John Hanmer died earlier today at the age of 82. The statements confirming his passing didn’t mention the specific cause of John Hanmer’s death. However, we believe that he passed away due to natural causes as he was really old.
In the last few years, his condition has been deteriorating and his body wasn’t well physically. He also started having a number of old-age-related problems. Still, we are waiting for an official confirmation from his family.
They are yet to respond to our request to find more details surrounding the manner and cause of his death. We’ll update this section once more information is released.
Tributes Flooding for John Hanmer on Social Media
Social media platforms, especially Twitter, are full of tributes, wishes, and prayers for John Hanmer who passed away recently. His sudden passing has left everyone shocked.
Ian Bartlett, the current racing commentator who worked with Hanmer previously, was among the first to pay respect to the deceased. “I had lunch with him two weeks ago and his memory for things going back to the Fifties was fantastic and he was still razor sharp,” he said.
Racing TV presenter Lydia Hislop also paid respect to Hanmer in an emotional post. “What a loss. He’ll be much missed,” she wrote on Twitter.
“RIP John ‘Melling Road’ Hanmer. A gentleman in every sense of the word,” wrote Brendan Powell.
The information about John Hanmer’s survivors is unavailable at this time. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones. May God let the departed soul rest in peace.