Tribute to voice of football John Motson, whose love affair with sport was inspired by Swineshead connection

To many people legendary commentator John Motson was the voice of football in this country - but his love affair for the game actually began in the area.

Tributes have been paid to the former BBC broadcaster, well known for his trademark sheepskin coat, after he passed away aged 77 last week.

Motty - as he was affectionately known - commentated on football from the 1970s until 2008, bringing his unique style to top flight, FA Cup and international matches.

Mr Motson’s father William - a Methodist Minister - grew up in Swineshead and often brought his son home to visit family.

It was during these trips that Mr Motson took in his first match, being taken to watch Boston United.

He became a staunch Pilgrims fan, also going on to support Barnet following his time covering the Bees as a young newspaper reporter in north London.

United president John Blackwell was good friends with Mr Motson, and remembers him as a ‘tremendous’ man.

“We were friends and there was a long while when I used to send him a home programme from every match,” Mr Blackwell said.

“When (my daughter) Lisa was younger she had her first open heart surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital and she was there six weeks.

“John visited her and took a card signed by Gary Lineker and Paul Gascoigne, and himself. She’s still got that card. It was a lovely touch. He was a tremendous man.”

Mr Motson would watch Boston play when possible, especially on the occasions when they played nearer his London home, often in contests against Barnet and Enfield.

He also completed the 92 Club - the name given to people who have watched a match at all 92 Premier League and Football League Grounds - at Bury’s Gigg Lane in the early 2000s as they faced Boston.