Sports broadcaster David Coleman dies

Former Grandstand presenter has died at the age of 87

Sports broadcaster David Coleman has died at the age of 87, his family has confirmed.

The renowned athletics commentator worked for the BBC for almost 50 years, covering 11 summer Olympic Games, his final one in Sydney in 2000.

He also covered six football World Cups.

His family said in a statement: “We regret to announce the death of David Coleman OBE, after a short illness he died peacefully with his family at his bedside.”

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Coleman joined the BBC in 1954, presented Grandstand and also hosted quiz show A Question Of Sport from 1979 to 1997.

He also became affectionately known for on-air gaffes, giving his name to the term Colemanballs.

He retired from the BBC in 2000.

Later that year he became the first broadcaster to receive an Olympic Order medal to recognise his contribution to the Olympic movement.