BBC commentator and regular at Sandwich's The Open venue, Royal St George's, Peter Alliss dies at the age of 89
11:54, 06 December 2020
updated: 11:55, 06 December 2020
Tributes have been paid to BBC golf commentator Peter Alliss who has died at the age of 89.
The 'voice of golf' in a career which spanned almost 50 years, he was a regular in the commentary box at Royal St George's in Sandwich for coverage of The Open.
He once famously quipped the rough on the 14th hole at the Kent course, during the 2003 Open "looks a bit like Jurassic Park in there".
He had planned to retire in 2021, but when this summer's Open, due to take place in Sandwich, was postponed as a result of the health pandemic, he pushed back his plans until 2022.
In 1985 he was the special guest to officially open a new clubhouse at nearby Prince's Golf club.
In a statement today, his family said: "It is with great sadness we announce the passing of golfing and broadcast legend Peter Alliss.
"His death was unexpected but peaceful.
"Peter was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and his family ask for privacy at this difficult time."
A former player, he had performed on the tour from 1952 to 1969. He began his commentary career in 1961.
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