Weeks dies aged 72

Tuesday 11 June 1996 23:02 BST

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Alan Weeks, a BBC sports commentator for 45 years, died yesterday aged 72.

Weeks, the first front man for Summer Grandstand, was a driving force behind the Sports Aid Foundation. But he will be best remembered for his commentary of Torvill and Dean's 1984 Olympic gold medal-winning performance in Los Angeles.

His first broadcast for the BBC was in 1951. He worked at every Winter Olympics since 1964 and at world and European skating championships since 1958. He was also a football commentator for 22 years and attended four World Cup finals.

Jonathan Martin, BBC head of sport, said: "Alan's endearing charm and modesty belied his achievements as one of sports broadcasting's true pioneers. He was blessed with a marvellous voice and enormous versatility."

Obituaries, main section, page 12

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