Ex-BBC presenter and firefighter Beccy Barr dies aged 46

The mum, 46, joined the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service in September 2019, after 20 years as a journalist and seven with BBC’s North West Tonight.

She revealed at the time she was following in the footsteps of her father, Roy Barr, and after finishing her training was posted to Blackburn Fire Station.

Beccy started her career at the Blackpool Citizen in her early 20s and had previously worked for Bloomberg News and CNBC.

A post on Beccy’s account on X, formerly Twitter, read: “I’m sharing the very sad news that Beccy passed away peacefully this morning.

"She spent her last few days at [St John's Hospice] who provided the most dignified and compassionate care to Beccy and her whole family.

"Donations to the hospice can be made in Beccy’s memory.”

A further post on Instagram by her sister read: “This morning Beccy passed away peacefully at St John’s Hospice in Lancaster.

"They offered the most dignified and compassionate care for the last few days of her life.

“Beccy led an incredible life that I will post about on her account in the near future along with details of her funeral.

"For now, I just want to say that I was incredibly blessed to have such an amazing sister. 

“She was a very loved daughter, granddaughter and niece. More than anything she was a wonderful mother to Hannah.”

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said today : "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our colleague and friend, firefighter Beccy Barr.

"Beccy was a dedicated and courageous firefighter who served with professionalism and compassion. She was an enthusiastic and warm person who became an inspiration to many."

BBC North West presenter Annabel Tiffin said: “This is such unbelievably sad news.

"Beccy was a feisty, fearless woman gone far too soon. Condolences to her family.”

BBC Lancashire’s John Gillmore added: “This is very sad, RIP Beccy x.”

Beccy posted this image of the pride moment when she gained a certificate of distinction in 2022

Beccy had said she had wanted to follow in the foot steps of her father, Roy (@BeccyBarr)

Cat Smith, MP for Lancaster and Wyre, wrote: “I’m so sorry to hear this, my heart aches for all those who mourn her.

"She made the world a better place because of everything she did with an enthusiasm that few could match. RIP Beccy. So much love to her family right now.”

Viewers who had met Beccy shared their tributes too.

One person, Laura, posted: “Beccy was one of the most amazing people I ever had the privilege to meet.

"She was always a joy to work with and even more fun to party with. She had a heart of gold, was a total inspiration and always followed her dreams. 

“I know she tackled her cancer as she did everything in her life. My love to you all and her darling daughter. Sending strength at this difficult time. Beccy was so loved by everyone who she met.”

Rebecca said: “I remember Beccy coming to the primary school I worked in with Pudsey Bear for Children in Need when she worked for North West Tonight.

"I began following her on social media and enjoyed reading her updates on her new career as a firefighter. 

“Such a talented woman in everything she did. Thinking of all her family and colleagues at this difficult time.”

The family said anyone wanting to send donations should do so in Beccy’s memory to St John's Hospice.