SKY Sports rugby league commentator Eddie Hemmings is to hang up his microphone after nearly 30 years.

The Appleton resident says the traditional St Helens v Wigan derby will be his last match.

For a quarter of a century, Eddie built an iconic partnership with pundit Mike 'Stevo' Stephenson.

Since Stevo's retirement, Eddie has continued as part of the Sky team alongside the likes of Brian Carney, Phil Clarke, Jon Wells, Barrie McDermott and Terry O'Connor.

"It's been an honour and a privilege to work for Sky Sports for nearly 30 years," Eddie said on the Sky Sports website.

"When Stevo retired, I said I'd give it a couple more years without him, and with Terry O'Connor and Barrie McDermott alongside me the fun has never stopped.

"There are far too many people to thank - but I'd just like to single out our head of rugby league Neville Smith and the most brilliant of researchers, Ian Proctor, who have made my job so easy.

"Also, to the Super League coaches, who have trusted me and shared information with me - a huge debt of gratitude to all of them.

Warrington Guardian:

Eddie Hemmings

"I'll miss it, there's no doubt about that - but now I will have more time for my wife and family. My wife Carole and I have many adventures planned - to coin a phrase from Super League itself, it's a whole new era for us and new beginnings."

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Warrington Guardian:

Eddie is well known at Warrington Golf Club

Eddie's farewell game is the famous Good Friday clash between Saints and Wigan on April 19.