Former BBC Radio Norfolk presenter Paul Barnes dies aged 85

Tributes have been paid to the former radio and television presenter Paul Barnes, who has died at the age of 85.

Barnes worked across the BBC radio network for many years, as well as the World Service and local radio for the Eastern Counties.

He was also the first reporter on Radio 1’s Newsbeat and his TV credits included The Village Show, Anything Goes and Folio, all for ITV.

His wife and fellow broadcaster Helen McDermott said Barnes lived a “full and colourful life”.

Barnes was born in Coventry in 1939.

He began his working life in a photographic shop and later entered the media, starting first in radio.

His career spanned decades, broadcasting across the BBC’s network radio stations.

He was also well known on BBC Radio Norfolk and presented on Anglia Television during the early Nineties.

“He loved life and whatever he did, TV, Radio or writing, he was a perfectionist,” Ms McDermott said.

Robert Thompson, the BBC’s Senior Head of Content Production, London and East, said Barnes’ “home was the East”.

“His love of music shone through, and many will remember that enthusiasm reflected in his programme ‘The Late Paul Barnes’ which delighted so many listeners.”

David Clayton, who was the editor at BBC Radio Norfolk during Barnes’ time there, said his love for jazz was evident.

“He was always a great ‘wordsmith’ with his writing,” he said.

“His colourful prose, particularly about his beloved jazz music, was a joy to hear.

“His knowledge was vast and his keenness to pass that on to a loyal band of like-minded listeners made for memorable radio shows.”

He continued: “Barnes ended every show the same way with a cheery ‘pip pip’. So ‘pip pip’ Barnsey. Thanks for some great music.”