Revised Title:
"BBC Presenter Who Worked With Anthea Turner Dies at 85; Colleagues Pay Tribute"

Key Adjustments:

• Replaced "star who presented alongside" with "Presenter Who Worked With" for concision and clarity.
• Used "Dies" instead of "dead" for active voice.
• Streamlined structure while retaining essential details (BBC affiliation, connection to Anthea Turner, age, tributes).

BBC Presenter Paul Barnes Passes Away at 85
By Laura Parkin for MailOnline

Veteran BBC TV and radio presenter Paul Barnes has died at the age of 85, his family announced Friday. Known for his work on The Village Show, Folio, and Anything Goes, Barnes also collaborated with a young Anthea Turner during his decades-long career.

His wife, Helen McDermott, described him as a man who lived a “full and colourful life,” adding, “He loved life, and whatever he did—TV, radio, or writing—he was a perfectionist.” Barnes’ career spanned BBC’s World Service, local radio stations like Radio Norfolk, and writing columns for publications such as the Eastern Daily Press, The Guardian, and Punch.

Paul Barnes was celebrated for his work on BBC shows and radio.

Colleagues paid heartfelt tributes, with BBC’s Robert Thompson praising Barnes’ passion: “His love of music shone through… listeners delighted in his program The Late Paul Barnes.” Former BBC Radio Norfolk editor David Clayton recalled Barnes’ signature sign-off, “pip pip,” and his talent as a “wordsmith” with a vast knowledge of jazz.

Barnes (right) with co-host Anthea Turner during their BBC days.

The news follows the recent death of another BBC legend, Radio 1 DJ Andy Peebles, at 76. Peebles, known for his 1980 interview with John Lennon days before the musician’s death, was mourned by peers like Mike Read, who called him a “chum” and praised his deep knowledge of music and cricket.

Andy Peebles (pictured) interviewed John Lennon shortly before his death in 1980.

Barnes’ legacy endures through his contributions to broadcasting and journalism, remembered for his wit, dedication, and the joy he brought to audiences.

Images courtesy of Daily Mail.

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BBC star who presented alongside Anthea Turner dead aged 85 as colleagues pay tribute

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