Beccy Barr: Former BBC TV presenter and firefighter dies

A ex-BBC TV host who changed professions to become a firefighter has passed away.

Beccy Barr was employed by BBC North West Tonight starting in 2013, but she decided to leave in 2019 to join Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.

In a blog post, it was shared that a person, who is 46 years old and lives in Lancaster, received a diagnosis of abdominal cancer in 2023. The cancer was described as incurable.

The former journalist's sister announced on her X account that she had peacefully passed away this morning. Annabel Tiffin, a former colleague from North West Tonight, described her as a strong and brave woman.

Roger Johnson, a host on the show, stated: "Beccy showed bravery in numerous aspects."

She not only showed bravery in confronting her illness, but she also demonstrated courage by leaving behind a thriving television career to pursue training as a firefighter.

She aimed to have an impact and she succeeded in doing so as well.

He mentioned that he was keeping her family in his thoughts.

The firefighter from Lancashire Fire and Rescue service's Red Watch in Blackburn decided to pursue her father's profession and joined the service.

She also pursued a Master's degree at the Disaster Management Centre at Bournemouth University.

The fire department expressed great sorrow upon learning the news, stating that Beccy was a committed and brave firefighter who served with skill and empathy.

She was a passionate and friendly individual who served as a role model to numerous people.

Lancashire's top fire official, Justin Johnston, said to the BBC that it was a very sorrowful day.

He described Ms. Barr as an exceptional professional, knowledgeable and welcoming, passionate about firefighting techniques and improving the service.

"He said she had a really significant influence during the five years she worked with us,".

He described her as a "very energetic individual" who "left a very good impact everywhere she went".

We send our deepest condolences to her loved ones, close friends, and coworkers at Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service during this difficult time.

Cat Smith, who is a member of parliament representing Lancaster and Wyre, was one of many people expressing their condolences on social media. The Labour MP stated that Ms. Barr improved the world with her unparalleled passion and dedication.

Former BBC Breakfast business presenter Steph McGovern shared on X: "It's really sad. Beccy brought so much energy and joy to the BBC newsroom."

She always made me laugh with her perspective on life. She was funny, intelligent, and courageous. And when she decided to become a firefighter, we were all amazed.

Chris Brindley, who manages BBC North West, described the previous host as a valued member of the group who was greatly liked.

He stated: "Those who had the opportunity to work alongside Beccy will recall her as a source of motivation, while those who saw her on screen will remember her as an exceptionally skilled journalist and host."

Ms Barr began her career in journalism at the Blackpool Citizen when she was in her early twenties. She then transitioned to working for Bloomberg News and CNBC in New York before returning to Lancashire and becoming a part of the BBC team.

She was a leader for the Girlguiding organization for many years, most recently overseeing a group of young girls at St Paul's Church in Scotforth.

Involved in the triathlon scene, she took part in IronmanUK and numerous extended endurance competitions.

Ms Barr's beloved daughter, Hannah, is the one who outlives her.

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