Reg Stacey, who commentated on Watford football matches for more than 50 years on Watford Hospital Radio, has died aged 85.

Reginald Henry Stacey, born June 10, 1929, died on Valentine's Day at the Bushey House Beaumont Care Home.

In recent years he suffered from vascular dementia and is survived by his wife Barbara, who continued to visit him daily.

On March 5, 1955, Mr Stacey was part of the broadcasting team that provided the first ever Hornets commentary for Watford Hospital Radio as Watford drew one-one against Gillingham.

His fellow broadcasters that day were Lionel Wright and Harold Cook.

Mr Stacey continued the hospital broadcasts until seven years ago and he and Lionel were presented with a special award by Watford Football Club on the 50th anniversary in 2005.

He was born in Winchester and moved to Gloucester when he was nine.

After serving in the Royal Navy and becoming a chief petty officer, Mr Stacey moved to Bushey and married Barbara in 1951.

He was the southern area sales representative for the Chloride Battery Company.

His friend Mike Matthews said: "Reg was always great company, very friendly and with an easy going nature.

"He had an opinion on every subject and a keen sense of humour. A fearless wicket keeper for Bushey Cricket Club, he was a late convert to the Catholic Church, a source of much strength for him in later years."

The funeral service is at Garston Crematorium on Friday, March 6, at 4pm.