Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny has led the tributes to RTE sports broadcaster Colm Murray who died on Tuesday morning from Motor Neurone Disease.

The 61-year-old from Moate in Westmeath was best known as one of Ireland’s leading authorities on horse racing.

He also covered several Olympics Games and World Cups in his time with the national broadcaster.

Irish PM Kenny expressed his sympathies to Murray’s family.

He said: “Colm was the voice of Irish racing for many years and he lit up the coverage of many a racing meet with his passion and enthusiasm for the sport.

“ I had the pleasure of being in Colm’s company recently and could see he was a proud Westmeath man who brought out the best in those around him with his affability and gift for storytelling.

“I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his wife, Anne, and daughters, Patricia and Kate, and sister, Mary. He is also a huge loss to all in RTÉ and my thoughts are with all who had the pleasure of knowing Colm during his lifetime.”

A tribute to Murray will be paid on the second day of the Galway races on Tuesday.

Jockeys Barry Geragthy and Davy Russell also expressed their sympathies with the Murray family.

Geraghty tweeted: “Very sad news to hear of RTÉ sports correspondent Colm Murray’s passing he was such a nice man and a great supporter of racing & all sports.”

Russell tweeted: “Very sad 2 hear of the passing of Colm Murray a true sports fan and gentleman who adored his racing. Thoughts are with his family.”

RTÉ broadcaster Des Cahill stated: “RIP the legendary Colm Murray.A fantastic colleague with a hearty, infectious laugh..a bundle of energy..& the worst racing tips in Ireland.”