Career
A British Broadcasting Corporation journalist for more than 25 years, he provided regular commentary and reporting on British Broadcasting Corporation Radio 5 Live. He covered three football Fédération internationale de football association World Cups, three Rugby League World Cups and two Commonwealth Games for the British Broadcasting Corporation, and provided commentary for the British Broadcasting Corporation"s coverage of the shooting events at the 2012 Summer Olympics. He was also commentating for British Broadcasting Corporation Radio 5 when Fabrice Mauamba collapsed on the pitch during a game and was praised for the professional way he approached the situation.
He was a keen Blackpool F.C. supporter.
He also took part in several London marathons. To show respect Blackpool F.C produced a two-page memorial in the match magazine when they played Millwall on 9 February 2013, also made a Blackpool F.C. shirt with Oates on the back as well as the number 62, the year in which he was born.
