The entertainment and sports communities are mourning the loss of Tony Adkins, affectionately known as Big Tony, who passed away at the age of 64 on Easter Sunday while on a rugby tour in Poland. Adkins, a former bodyguard for Simon Cowell and a familiar face to fans of The X Factor, was remembered by his family and friends as a 'lovable rogue' whose presence will be deeply missed.

Adkins' cousin shared the sad news on social media, posting a heartfelt message alongside a photo of Tony. 'It is with great sadness my family would like to announce that my Cousin Big Tony, Simon Cowell's ex bodyguard, passed away on Easter Sunday while on a Rugby Tour. He was a loveable Rogue and will be missed very much, RIP Big T,' the message read. The Hammersmith and Fulham RFC, with whom Adkins was touring at the time of his passing, also paid tribute to him on their website, calling him a 'true gent and great Hammer.'

During his eight years on The X Factor, Adkins became known for his role in maintaining order during the often chaotic audition process. He was the go-to person for escorting disgruntled contestants out of the audition rooms, a task he performed with a blend of firmness and charm. His close working relationship with Simon Cowell allowed him unique insights into the music mogul's personality, which he shared in interviews, painting a picture of Cowell as generous, private, and meticulous about his appearance.

Adkins' passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from those who knew him, both within the entertainment industry and the rugby community. His legacy as a beloved figure on and off the screen will undoubtedly endure, as will the memories of his kindness, professionalism, and the indelible mark he left on those he worked with and protected.

Sandy Gall, the revered war correspondent and long-standing ITN broadcaster, has died at the age of 97. Known for his fearless reporting from some of the most dangerous conflict zones around the world, Gall's career spanned over six decades, during which he became one of the most trusted voices in British journalism. His passing marks the end of an era for war reporting and broadcast journalism.

Gall's journey in journalism began in the early 1950s with Reuters, covering significant global events such as the Suez Crisis and the assassination of President Kennedy. His transition to ITN in 1963 marked the start of a legendary tenure that would see him cover pivotal moments in history, including the Vietnam War and the Soviet-Afghan War. Gall's dedication to reporting from the front lines, often without official clearance, underscored his commitment to bringing the truth to the public.

Beyond his achievements in journalism, Gall was also known for his humanitarian efforts. After retiring from ITN in 1992, he founded Sandy Gall's Afghanistan Appeal, a charity aimed at aiding victims of war, particularly those injured by landmines and children in refugee camps. His work off the field was a testament to his compassion and dedication to making a difference in the lives of those affected by conflict.

Sandy Gall's legacy is not only defined by his groundbreaking reporting but also by his mentorship to younger journalists and his unwavering integrity. As tributes pour in from colleagues and admirers worldwide, it's clear that Gall's contributions to journalism and humanitarian efforts will continue to inspire future generations. His was indeed a great life, generously and courageously lived.