Iconic Voice of 'Country Calendar' Has Passed Away

The man regarded as the "voice" of New Zealand's longest-running television show,Country Calendar, has died not long after the show celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Frank Torley, 75, died peacefully on Saturday morning after a short, sharp battle with cancer, his former employer TVNZ reports.

He retired as the narrator on Country Calendar last month because of problems with his vocal cords.

The rural-focused show celebrated its 50th year earlier this month.