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Former BBC Presenter and Firefighter Beccy Barr Passes Away


Beccy Barr

Beccy Barr was a presenter for BBC North West Tonight from 2013 to 2019.

Career Change: In 2019, she left the BBC to train as a firefighter with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.
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.


Diagnosis: In 2023, Beccy was diagnosed with incurable abdominal cancer.

Her sister announced on social media that Beccy passed away peacefully.

Colleagues' Praise:
  • Annabel Tiffin called her "a feisty, fearless woman."
  • Roger Johnson, a current presenter, praised her courage and dedication to making a difference.

Fire Service

  • Lancashire Fire and Rescue described her as a dedicated and courageous firefighter who inspired many.
  • Chief Fire Officer Justin Johnston highlighted her professionalism and passion for firefighting.


Beccy made a significant impact during her five years with the fire service, known for her enthusiasm and positive influence.

Active in Girlguiding, she led a Rainbow unit at St. Paul's Church in Scotforth.

She was involved in the triathlon community, participating in IronmanUK and other long-distance events.


Lancaster and Wyre MP Cat Smith was among hundreds paying tribute on social media, the Labour MP said Ms Barr "made the world a better place because of everything she did with an enthusiasm that few could match".

Former BBC Breakfast business presenter Steph McGovern posted on X: "This is heartbreaking. Beccy was the life and soul of the BBC newsroom.

"She always cracked me up with her take on life. Funny, smart and fearless. And then when she left to be a firefighter we were all in awe."

Chris Brindley, editor of BBC North West, said the former presenter was a "much-loved part of the team". 

He added: "Those who worked with Beccy will remember her as an inspiration and those who watched her will remember her as a really talented journalist and presenter."

Ms Barr started her journalism career at the Blackpool Citizen in her early 20s and then worked for Bloomberg News and CNBC in New York before she moved back to Lancashire and joined the BBC.

She was a Girlguiding leader for many years, most recently running a Rainbow unit at St Paul's Church in Scotforth.

Active in the triathlon community, she participated in IronmanUK and several long-distance athletic events.




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