Pryce

HEARTBEATS ACROSS the media fraternity slowed yesterday as members struggled to process news that broadcaster Michael Pryce had died.

Pryce, 48, died in an England hospital yesterday, where he was undergoing treatment for cancer.

The CVM Group, to which Pryce was employed, said he "was a dedicated, committed and faithful employee, colleague and friend".

Born in Birmingham, England, Pryce attended Kingston College and Vere Technical High School. He later returned to England, where he pursued university studies. He also served a stint in the British army.

Hard worker

CVM President and CEO Dr David McBean said Pryce was a hard worker who would be remembered as an example to aspiring journalists.

"He will also be remembered for his indomitable spirit in his fight with cancer and the hope and encouragement he gave to others while on that journey," a statement from CVM said.

The Press Association of Jamaica, Pryce's professional organisation, said he was not only an active member but the consummate professional.

"Michael's inimitable voice will be sorely missed from the airwaves, but the camaraderie that he brought to the association's events will be fondly remembered," PAJ President Byron Buckley said.

Pryce was hospitalised earlier this year at the University Hospital of the West Indies. He later travelled to the UK where he has citizenship.

As news of the journalist's passing hit home yesterday, many media practitioners expressed shock and grief.

At CVM, reporter Andrew Cannon described Pryce as "someone who was always willing to pass on knowledge to younger journalists".

"He was never selfish and was one who also impressed on us the need to strive for excellence and never to settle for mediocrity," Cannon said.

Simpson Miller saddened

Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller said she was saddened by Michael's passing.

"He has made significant contributions to media and journalism in Jamaica over a relatively short career," Simpson Miller said.

Lisa Hanna, the opposition spokesperson on information and youth, also expressed sadness at the passing of Pryce.

Michael Williams, general secretary of the National Democratic Movement, said Pryce was a true professional.

Pryce's media career took him to the BBC World Service and Choice FM radio in London, Television Jamaica, and Radio Jamaica, before he joined CVM TV and HOT 102 in Jamaica.

He worked as a broadcast journalist with CVM TV, covering news and sports, anchoring news and sportscasts, as well as hosting current-affairs programmes.

Pryce is survived by his widow Maxine and two daughters.