Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam dresses as nun for football match

Former health boss Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam has been spotted at a football match dressed as a nun.

The Boston United fan was seen wearing the habit as the Pilgrims beat Hereford on Saturday.

The 2-0 victory saw the Lincolnshire National League North side clinch a play-off place.

Sir Jonathan said the outfit was part of a "growing tradition" among football fans of wearing fancy dress for the last away game of the season.

England's former deputy chief medical officer became a household name when he used colourful metaphors - including football analogies - to explain scientific concepts during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sir Jonathan, who was joined by two other fans also dressed in religious attire, said: "I am a lifelong and proud Pilgrims fan.

"I love an away day, and being part of our immensely dedicated travelling support, whenever I have the time, taking part in all the traditions.

"Thanks to a superb performance by our team on Saturday, we are through to the play-offs."

Sir Jonathan was knighted in 2022 for his public health work.

He also has a voluntary role as chair of the Lincolnshire Football Association.

The local FA said: "One of the reason's Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam was selected as the chair of the association was for his passion for Lincolnshire football, with him being proud Boston United supporter.

"We fully support our chair supporting his team and participating in a fan-led, end of season tradition".

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