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YHR Meets…John Helm (football commentator)
12th April 2026 • YHRadio Meets • York Hospital Radio
00:00:00 01:01:29

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York Hospital Radio meets John Helm, a true commentary legend whose career spans over six decades. From standing on the terraces to calling ten World Cups, John reflects on an extraordinary journey through the game.

We cover his early commentaries covering Leeds United during the Don Revie era, iconic moments across various Yorkshire football clubs, his work on FIFA tournaments, the Indian Super League, and his current employment for Lincoln City who he commentates for despite being into his 80s.

Alongside the highs, John shares his harrowing memories of the Bradford City fire and how he continues to respect those lives lost. We also dive into his philosophy behind the microphone, how he developed his distinctive style, and his respect for fellow commentators across the generations — before finishing with his famous party piece: naming every club in the English football pyramid, just as he did for a Guinness World Record in the 1980s.

Interview conducted by Dan Tait. Edited and produced by James Charters.

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