Former Rovers star Geoff to hang up his headphones after three decades
AFTER almost 30 years as the voice of sport for BBC Radio Bristol, Geoff Twentyman will step away from the microphone and retire at the end of the season.
Born in Liverpool, Twentyman has become synonymous with the city’s sports scene since making more than 300 appearances for Bristol Rovers from 1986-93. After calling time on his playing career, he became the face of the BBC’s coverage across the West Country, transcending the rivalry between Rovers and Bristol City to be greatly respected by both fanbases.
Twentyman, 64, will remain in his post until the end of this season, fronting popular programmes like Having A Gas, The Sound Of The City and The Scrum, as well as matchday coverage for City and Rovers’ games.
“I am excited as to what the next chapter involves,” Twentyman said in a BBC statement.
“I am looking forward to spending more time with my family. My three beautiful granddaughters are growing up so quickly and I have a grandson due in June. It’s been an absolute joy covering West Country sport for nigh-on three decades.
“I am chuffed that programmes such as The Sound Of The City are part of the region’s sporting culture. I am blessed to have worked with so many great colleagues and have chatted with so many interesting people. It’s been a privilege being able to ask the big questions of the decision makers – hopefully the ones that the fans wanted answers to.”
Before joining the Gas, Twentyman played more than 100 times for Preston North End. He would play a significant role in the 1989/90 season when Gerry Francis’ Rovers won the Division Three title.
Stephanie Marshall, head of BBC West and South West, paid tribute to Twentyman’s three decades of broadcasting in Bristol.
“Geoff is the West Country’s favourite Scouser – loved and recognised by fans across the city – blue and red,” she said.
“Geoff has been the voice of football and sport here for decades and he’s not just popped up on Saturdays or for the midweek matches – he’s presented just about every show on the station. The team at Radio Bristol and our listeners will miss him but he’ll be on air to see the football season to the end so there’s plenty of time for us to say thank you and wish him the best.”
Gareth Roberts, the executive editor of BBC Radio Bristol and BBC Radio Somerset, added: “Without a doubt, Geoff is a legend here in Bristol, pulling off that rare feat of not only covering all our teams with authority and passion but also transcending local rivalries to earn the trust and respect of all fans. Geoff is also one of local radio’s most established and respected broadcasters.”