TRIBUTES are pouring in following the death of Widnes-born cyclist and commentator Paul Sherwen.

The cycling world is in mourning after 'the voice of Tour de France' died aged 62 at his home in Uganda from heart failure on Sunday.

He rode professionally from 1978 until 1987, competing in seven Tours de France and winning two national titles.

After he retired, he commentated on the Tour de France for Channel 4 and then began working on NBC Sports in America and SBS in Australia.

Paul's team mate and friend, Phil Liggett shared his devastation on Twitter on Sunday evening.

He said: "I went to bed in Africa with a heavy heart last night feeling sadness like never before.

"My team mate for 33 years was no longer with me.

"Your hundreds of messages showed how well @PaulSherwen was loved."

Lance Armstrong also took to social media to express his condolences.

He said: "Completely shocked and saddened to hear of Paul Sherwen’s passing.

"Met Paul in 1992 when he worked as our press officer for Team Motorola.

"He was always a class act and a great friend.

"My deepest condolences go out to his family.

"RIP Climber."

Tour de France announced that it was deeply saddened by the news and said: "He has been a great rider and an iconic voice of Le Tour over many years.

"All our thoughts go to his family, friends and colleagues."