Ex-BBC TV and radio presenter Chris Serle dies aged 81

Chris Serle, the esteemed British television and radio presenter, has passed away at the age of 81. Renowned for his engaging presence on programs such as "That's Life!" and "In at the Deep End," Serle significantly shaped British broadcasting during the 1970s and 1980s . His career was marked by versatility; he hosted a range of shows from entertainment to current affairs, showcasing not only his charm but also his keen intellect. His contributions to programs like "Pick of the Week" on Radio 4 further solidified his position as a beloved figure in media.

Serle, who was born and based in Bristol, worked on popular programmes throughout the 1970s and 1980s including In at the Deep End and as the long-time host of Points of View.

He was also well-known as one of the regular presenters of the BBC show That's Life, chaired Radio 4's Pick of the Week between 1981 and 1988 and was the host of a long-running afternoon show on BBC Radio Bristol.

In a statement released by his family, they said Chris was a "familiar and cherished figure on British television screens throughout the 1970s and 1980s".

Dame Esther sent her 'deepest sympathy' to his friends and family.

Others paid tribute to Serle on X with broadcaster Matthew Sweet wrote: 'This is such painful news. Chris was a donnish and delightful giant of a man. 

'He had a shambling diffidence that suited him when he – for instance – performed opera on TV without being able to sing. But I'll remember the warm & magnanimous silent movie fan, laughing in the dark.'

Actress Judy Matheson said: 'This is so sad. He was in my 1st theatre company,travelling all over US; when I first went to rehearse in Bristol he & his family put me up. He was such a terrific guy.

'Further to my last post, a memory with the brilliant Chris Serle, with me in my 1st job with the Bristol Old Vic, on our US tour in the Garden of The Gods in Denver in 1967. 

'He never seemed to age. We were both novices in professional theatre, but Chris became a polymath. R.I.P.'

Serle's illustrious broadcasting resume included chairing Radio 4's Pick Of The Week and anchoring a long-standing afternoon show on BBC Radio Bristol, as well as presenting In At The Deep End and Points Of View for the BBC.

BBC News has reported that the arrangements for his funeral and memorial service are currently being made and will be announced in due time. Serle leaves behind his wife Ali and their three children, as well as two children from a previous marriage.

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Sarah H

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