Tributes have been paid to broadcaster and cancer campaigner Dame Deborah James following her death at the age of 40.
She was host of the BBC Radio 5 Live podcast You, Me and the Big C which she started in 2018 and was given a damehood in May in recognition of her fundraising.
In her final weeks, Deborah raised millions of pounds for cancer research via her Bowelbabe fund which currently stands at almost £7m.
Deborah’s final words in the podcast she hosted with Lauren Mahon (and previously Rachael Bland), were Check Your Poo.
Presenter Tony Livesey has hosted a celebration of Debs – who she was, the remarkable things she achieved, the inspiration she gave others and her unmistakable legacy.
BBC Radio 5 Live tweeted: “Our friend and colleague Dame Deborah James has died.
“She created an incredible legacy: breaking the poo taboo and raising awareness of bowel cancer.
“We are heartbroken, and our condolences are with her family.”
Heidi Dawson, Controller of BBC Radio 5 Live said: “As colleagues and friends, we are all heartbroken at Radio 5 Live. Our deepest condolences are with her family. Dame Deborah James inspired a national conversation with You, Me and the Big C that has impacted millions of people.
“She was a naturally talented broadcaster, so funny, with a blunt honesty. She had the most incredible energy, a magnetism that drew you towards her. The messages from her listeners show the incredibly special connection she made. We were privileged to have her share so much with us all. Deb – and the legacy she leaves behind – will forever be a treasured part of our station.”
BBC Director-General, Tim Davie added: “This is incredibly sad news. Dame Deborah James was a true inspiration. We’re so proud to have worked with her at the BBC. The way she talked about, and faced up to her cancer, moved the nation, inspired change and undoubtedly saved lives. Our deepest sympathies are with her family, friends, followers and her 5 Live family.”
Dame Deborah as diagnosed with cancer in 2016 – her family described her as “amazing” and an “inspiration”.
