“Seven Up Sam” passes

Prime Minister Mottley has paid tribute to the late sports broadcaster Sam Wilkinson describing him as a true Barbadian sporting icon.

Mr. Wilkinson, popular known as “Seven Up Sam” as a result of his popular former radio sports show, passed away this morning at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital following a brief illness.

He was 82 years old and is survived by his wife of 54 years, Judy, and their two children Samantha and Barry, who is also a well known broadcaster.

Prime Minister Mottley says she learnt of Mr. Wilkinson’s passing while preparing for the funeral of her dear friend and party colleague, Herbie Yearwood.

She termed Sam, the consummate sports journalist, and said that while he had been out of the limelight for some time as a result of retirement, for many his voice was one that will never be forgotten.. According to Miss Mottley, he stood apart when it came to sports reporting.

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Former sports journalist and Director of the Barbados National Sports Council, Erskine King, has described the passing of Sam Wilkinson as a great loss to Barbados.