Veteran British golf commentator Peter Alliss has died at the age of 89, the BBC announced on Sunday. Known as 'the voice of golf' Alliss had covered the sport for the BBC for over half a century. His television career began in 1961, and he became lead commentator in 1978 when he retired as a player. "It is with great sadness we announce the passing of golfing and broadcast legend Peter Alliss," said his family in a statement. November's Masters was the last tournament he covered. "Peter was the voice of golf, said Barbara Slater, director of BBC Sport. "He was an absolute master of his craft with a unique ability to capture a moment with a magical turn of phrase that no one else could match," she added. In his playing days he won 31 tournaments. nr/bsp