The National Athletics League would like to pay tribute to highly-respected track and field commentator and statistician Peter Matthews, following the very sad news that he has passed away at the age of 78.

Peter Matthews was present at Sale on the League’s first day in 1969 and was one of a number of dedicated young people who poured energy into it to help get it off the ground and build its reputation.

Such was his nous for keeping records, when asked to contribute to the League’s 50th anniversary publication in 2019, he still had the programme for that meeting, along with vast files of information.

Indeed, Peter went to great lengths to enthusiastically compile a wealth of statistics for the League over that period, including separate records for every division.

At club level, he served as President of Enfield and Haringey. Internationally, he was known by his distinct voice as a commentator for radio and television around the world (see below).

But he was one of few broadcasters who commentated on World Championships and Olympic Games, who would also turn out as an announcer at youth and grassroots levels of the sport.

The National Athletics League owes a debt to Peter’s great willingness, knowledge, and expertise and sends condolences to his friends and family.