How John Motson’s coat became part of football history

Football commentator, who has died aged 77, became known for his long sheepskin coat over many years

John Motson was, for over 50 years, known primarily for his voice, but his long sheepskin coat – worn on freezing touchlines and in cramped commentary boxes – became almost as much of a trademark.

He first began wearing the coat in the 1970s during the winter months of the football season. It was in December 1990 that his outerwear became notable – when he appeared on BBC Grandstand covering a FA Cup tie between Wycombe Wanderers and Peterborough United, postponed due to snow. Motson was photographed on the snowy pitch, battling the weather in his floor length sheepskin. The image of him appeared in newspapers and become a piece of football history.