Tributes are pouring in for former regional news presenter Geoff Clark, who has died aged 77.

Mr Clark was a familiar face on TV in Kent, having worked at ITV Meridian from 1998 until 2005, and BBC South East Today after that until 2009.

He moved to the West Country before the pandemic to be closer to his family and died peacefully on Sunday after a short illness.

A statement from Gillingham FC, where Mr Clark was a supporter, said: “The club is devastated to learn of the passing of our good friend, and former local TV broadcaster, Geoff Clark.”

Mr Clark was a regular at the football club’s Priestfield Stadium and often performed matchday hosting duties in the boardroom.

This included interviewing the Man of the Match and welcoming vice presidents, sponsors, and guests from the opposition club.

The Tunbridge Wells-based PR agency Maxim said on its Facebook page: “We're very sad to hear of the death of former BBC South East presenter Geoff Clark.

“We did a lot of work with Geoff back in the day as he was a wonderful event host, as well as a brilliant TV presenter.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and former colleagues.”

The BBC South East Facebook page had 167 messages of condolence from members of the public by this morning.

The post said: “A former co-presenter alongside Beverley Thompson, Geoff enjoyed a long and successful career in broadcasting, also working for TV AM, Sky News and ITV Meridian. Our thoughts are with Geoff's family and friends.”

Viewer Lesley Youldon Jarvis commented: “Remember him well, sorry to hear this. RIP Geoff.”

Sally Smith said: “Really liked him when he was on BBC SE.”

Phil Masters wrote:” RIP. Geoff. He always seemed to come across as a lovely, friendly guy. Thoughts to his family, friends and colleagues.”

Mr Clark had been credited with transforming BBC South East from a ratings disaster to a flagship news show.

But he was still axed with co-presenter Beverley Thompson in September 2009, causing a furore among viewers.

The move prompted some to say they would switch to Meridian for their regional TV news.