Virgo was a popular commentator, with his famous “where’s the cue ball going?” catchphrase when a player was close to committing a foul.

Four-time world champion Mark Selby said: “So sad to hear the news of the passing of John Virgo! Such a great guy and a huge character! He will be greatly missed! RIP JV.”

Former world champion Shaun Murphy, who worked alongside Virgo for the BBC, said: “I first met John in 1994, filming Junior Big Break. He then went on to become a friend and colleague.

“I learned so much from him whilst sharing a commentary box. The voice of snooker will be sadly missed.”

Neil Robertson, another former world champion, said: “He was a great character and an amazing pundit and commentator.

“I had the pleasure of sharing the booth with him during the World Championship a couple of years ago in which I got a huge appreciation for how good he was.”

A World Snooker statement read: “Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo.”

Former world number three Neal Foulds said: “Terribly sad news that we have lost one of the greats of snooker in John Virgo.

“JV was incredibly generous, kind and funny. He was also a wonderful player and commentator. Thanks for all the great memories JV.”

Virgo, who was born in Salford in 1946, had two children – Gary and Brooke-Leah.