HE has described the action at major events across the world, and internationally-renowned broadcaster John Helm can now add another entry to his impressive CV – Altrincham’s Conference North game at Bradford Park Avenue.

A veteran of no fewer than eight World Cups, the Bradford-born former ITV commentator’s face and voice are instantly recognisable throughout the land, and beyond.

He has never forgotten his roots, though, and when Alty’s joint press officer Brian Flynn invited him to join the Radio Robins team at Bradford’s Horsfall Stadium last week, he did not hesitate.

“Park Avenue have always been my club,” he said, as he prepared to help Brian and Tim Ainsworth cover Alty’s 2-2 draw.

“I remember my dad taking me to see them beat Accrington Stanley 4-0 in 1953, and that was it. I was hooked from then on. The atmosphere at the old ground was magical, and it became very much my spiritual home.

“I still follow the lads here at the Horsfall, and I remember going to a game at Hyde and being buttonholed by someone who asked if I would do an interview for them. I said I’d gladly do whatever they wanted, so they then said how about commentating. Brian got to hear about this and sent me a message asking if I would do an Altrincham game. I said I’d be only too delighted, and what better than a game against Park Avenue?

“I’ve done my research, too. I can tell you the exact starting line-up and formation Lee Sinnott went for last Saturday, so as long as I pronounce the names correctly, I should be all right.

“Broadcasting was part of my upbringing in journalism, from the moment I joined BBC Radio Leeds in 1970, and I love talking about football, so I didn’t have to think twice when I got that message from Brian. It’s an absolute delight to be making my debut on Radio Robins.

“I’d like to wish Alty all the best for the rest of the season, as well. We have done better than anyone dared imagine, after being promoted last season, but I know expectations at Moss Lane are higher. Funnily enough, I’ve just been talking to your secretary (Derek Wilshaw) about those famous Cup exploits and names like John King and Graham Heathcote. It would be good if you could get back to that level.”