YOUR front-page photograph of Andy Murray winning Sports Personality of the Year shows what a handsome young man he is when he has taken the trouble to shave and is dressed smartly in a suit, collar and tie. He even had a folded handkerchief in his breast pocket. Is that a first? (“Murray nets BBC’s sports award, The Herald, December 21).
The programme, in front of an enthusiastic Belfast audience, was one of the best in recent years, well-planned and slickly presented. Perhaps the most moving moment was watching the excited eight-year old boy with multiple sclerosis going up to collect his award for taking part in triathlons – what courage!
The main award to Murray, and the team award to the winning Davis Cup team dominated by the Murray brothers’ exploits, were fully justified, and the outstanding successes of other nominees in a wide range of other sports were also impressive.
My only disappointment was the continued inclusion of the new world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury after his recent obnoxious remarks, and the exclusion from the nominees of the young Scots show-jumper Scott Brash despite his total domination of that sport this year. Doyou have to be a member of the Royal family to win recognition?
One final thought. Is it not time the BBC changed the title of the annual show to something more relevant? The awards have nothing to do with personality, they are about recognising outstanding success in sport.
Iain AD Mann,
7 Kelvin Court, Glasgow.
YOUR headline would be fine if Andy had stayed with his first love, football: a ball in the net would be OK – but a tennis ball in the net is bad news.
John Rankin,
12 Hamilton Place, Perth.
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