Family pays an emotional tribute to Big Davey, a gentle giant loved by all

“He was a larger than life character and a gentle giant who was loved by everyone who knew him.” The heartfelt words of Kevin Atkinson after the sad passing of his dad 'Big Davey', who had become known and loved by football fans across the North East for his regular calls to BBC Radio Newcastle's Total Sport, and had gained fame for his catchphrase 'let's get carried away'.

- by Neil Fatkin

Davey Atkinson soaking up the atmosphere before kick off.

Davey Atkinson sadly passed away at the age of 64, on Sunday, September 14, after a five-month battle with a brain tumour.

He was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer in April, which his son Kevin said led to an inoperable tumour in the central area of his brain.

A staunch Sunderland AFC fan who had become known and loved by fans across the Tyne and Wear football divide, Davey gained regional fame for his ebullient calls and loud booming voice, always seeing the positive in things.

Kevin, 42, said: "Football and Sunderland AFC has always been dad's passion. He was there as a kid in 1973 for the FA Cup win and has always been a massive fan of the club.

“At 6ft 7, he was a larger than life character, always smiling, happy, and seeing the positives in everything, even up until the end when he knew he was dying.