Steve Roberts, a definitive voice of local sports broadcasting, has died. BBC Radio Merseyside, where Roberts was a former presenter, confirmed his passing in an official statement on the evening of Friday, October 23, 2026.
Roberts was a fixture of the Merseyside airwaves, best known for his tenure as the host of the rugby league program “Try Time.” He anchored the show alongside Ray French and Allan Rooney, becoming a trusted source of analysis and commentary for the regional rugby community.
The news has prompted a wave of tributes from former colleagues and listeners. According to the Liverpool Echo, peers described Roberts as a “brilliant broadcaster” and “one of the genuine good guys” in the industry, reflecting his reputation for professionalism and warmth on and off the microphone.
Transition to Club Management
While his voice was synonymous with the BBC, Roberts eventually transitioned from covering sports to active management within the professional game. In August 2022, he was appointed as the General Manager of the Widnes Vikings. His move to the club was seen as a natural extension of his dedication to rugby league, bringing media experience and community ties to the organization.
Roberts’ legacy remains tied to the golden era of local sports radio, where his distinctive style helped define the coverage of Merseyside’s sporting landscape for a generation of fans.
