Blackburn Rovers and Watford FC fans paid tribute to PA announcer Matt Sillitoe with a one minute applause in the 30th minute.

Matt was a much-loved friend and colleague and a life-long Blackburn Rovers fan who presented Radio Rovers before becoming the club’s matchday PA announcer.

The news that Matt had died aged 30-years-old broke yesterday (August 26). Tributes were paid at the match today (August 27).

Captain Lewis Travis presented a bouquet of flowers to the sister of Matt before fans on both sides applauded in the 30th minute.

 

His sister, Jessica Rose wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “My heart is in a thousand pieces!! You were my best friend and the best big brother.

“I will never let anyone forget you. As you always said, ‘we’ll keep the laughs going’, and that is what I intend to do! I will be at Watford tomorrow for you, cheering on our football club!”

People joined in with tributes to Matt of their own, including a former colleague Andy Watson, who said: “Worked with Matt on a couple of projects and my experience with him was one of absolute love for Blackburn Rovers.

“Every interaction with Matt was always a positive one. What a miss he is to us all.

“Rest In Peace my friend.”

 

A Blackburn Rovers fan posted: “Absolutely shocked and saddened to hear the passing of our beloved stadium announcer.

“The voice behind the highs and the lows of my memories as a Rovers Fan. 30 is no age at all.”

Matt had worked in a variety of roles for the club since starting out as a camera operator for Rovers’ broadcast partner, CREATV, in 2012.

Matt quickly progressed to become the co-presenter and then presenter of Radio Rovers, before becoming the club’s matchday PA announcer and DJ – a role he had held since 2014.

Matt also spent over three years as Media Manager for Blackburn Rovers Community Trust, producing written, video and social media content for the club’s charity.

A spokesperson for Blackburn Rovers FC said: “Everyone at Blackburn Rovers and Blackburn Rovers Community Trust is deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the untimely passing of our friend and colleague Matt Sillitoe, aged just 30.

“The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected with the club are with Matt’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”