BBC star Chris Serle dies as family remember 'cherished' TV and radio figure

He was a familiar face and many viewers have been paying their respects and recalling fond memories

Former BBC television and radio presenter Chris Serle has died at the age of 81, his family has confirmed. In a poignant tribute released to the BBC, the family described Chris as a "familiar and cherished figure on British television screens throughout the 1970s and 1980s".

Well-remembered for his presence on screen and radio from the 70s through to the 90s, Chris found prominence with the satirical consumer affairs show 'That's Life!' alongside Dame Esther Rantzen, among others. His career in broadcasting saw him at the forefront of programmes such as 'In at the Deep End' and 'Points of View' for the BBC.

The Mirror reports He also led Radio 4's 'Pick of the Week' between 1981 and 1988 and delighted audiences with his afternoon programme on BBC Radio Bristol. Chris's roll call of notable shows also encompasses 'Windmill', celebrated for its nostalgic look back at archival BBC footage from beloved shows including 'Blue Peter' and 'Doctor Who'.

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Additionally, he appeared on 'The Computer Programme' in 1982 and later in 'Monkey Business', according to OK! magazine. His TV journey began in 1971 with an appearance on 'Dave Allen at Large'.

Mourning fans have shared their grief on social media, with one reminiscing, "Sad to hear BBC's Chris Serle has passed at 81 He was on lots of BBC shows when i was growing up in the 70's and 80's The Computer Show was probably my fav."

One nostalgic viewer reflected: "Chris Serle did a terrific job on 'The Computer Programme' at the time an exciting look into what the future might hold and now a fascinating historical document. Well worth rewatching if you were there at the time!" Another fan, expressing their sorrow, said: "Sad to hear that presenter Chris Serle has passed away, at the age of 81. Those of a certain vintage might remember him co-hosting (alongside Ian McNaught-Davis) the 1982 series 'The Computer Programme', a show created to introduce the viewer to the world of computers. RIP."

"Chris Serle is in no small way responsible for feeding an obsession that's never left me. Difficult to underestimate the impact that simple wee clips show "Windmill" had on me. So many Sunday mornings, bewitched as he introduced *treasure*. Thank you, Chris," another devastated fan posted.