Voice-over artist Phil Sayer dies

The Bradshaw father-of-two had been battling oesophageal cancer since 2014, but died on Thursday.

In a Facebook tribute to her husband, wife Elinor Hamilton said: "Phil Sayer – voice of reason, radio, and railways.

"A dearly loved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend."

A former radio presenter, Mr Sayer presented a daily BBC radio show in the 1980s and later set up a voice-artist company with his wife Elinor.

He was most well-known for his “mind the gap” and "stand clear of the doors" announcements on the London Underground and railway stations announcements across the country.

A DJ at Piccadilly Radio and BBC Radio Manchester for many years, Mr Sayer was also a familiar face on TV, reading regional news bulletins.

However after a sudden decline in his health, an announcement on the couple's business Facebook page revealed that he would be retiring from voicing in April.

It read: "Sadly, due to a sudden decline in health, Phil has now retired from voicing.

"Ellie, Alex and Ben will probably return to work some time in early May, but for now we would like to spend some time together with close family and friends, and your privacy would be greatly appreciated.

"Enormous thanks to you all from Phil for your valued and varied business over the last decades.

"It's been an absolute pleasure."

Tributes have poured in for the voice-over artist on social media from members of the public and figures from the industry.

BBC Radio 4 announcer Pete Nottage said: "The voiceover world lost one of its nicest and best figures last night. Sad day." while BBC Radio Manchester posted: "Rest in Peace Phil".

Members of the public also expressed their condolences.

John Hunnisette said: "RIP Phil Sayer, the true voice of the railway and a true icon on UK rail travel" and Jacob Tyne wrote: "Every time I board South West Trains service we will remember the man behind the voice that has been the background of the railway for as long as I can remember."