ThisisBigBrother.com - UK TV Forums - David Coleman passes away [merged topics]

David Coleman, the veteran sports commentator and long-time Question Of Sport presenter, has died at the age of 87.

The Grandstand and Sportsnight presenter, who retired in 2000, died peacefully with his family at his bedside after a short illness.

The BBC's director general Tony Hall said: "David Coleman was one of this country's greatest and most respected broadcasters.

David Coleman death
David Coleman - "a giant of sports broadcasting"

"Generations grew up listening to his distinctive and knowledgeable commentary. Whether presenting, commentating or offering analysis, he set the standard for all of today's sports broadcasters.

"Our thoughts are with his family and many friends."

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

He also covered six football World Cups as a commentator or presenter and was the host of the Question Of Sport for 18 years.

He was awarded an OBE in 1992.

Sky News Sports Editor Nick Powell described Mr Coleman as a "giant" of sports broadcasting.

He said: "A lot of sports broadcasting has been shaped by what David Coleman did all those years ago."

Barbara Slater, BBC director of sport, described him as "the master of his craft". She said: "In a BBC career that spanned over 40 years he set the standard that so many others have tried to emulate.