Former BBC Regional Weather Forecaster Craig Rich Dies at 86

Craig Rich, recognized as the BBC’s inaugural regional weather forecaster, has passed away at the age of 86. His family stated that he lived an “amazing life”. Mr. Rich commenced his tenure with the BBC Spotlight team in Plymouth in 1978, a role he maintained for a quarter-century. The former presenter’s death occurred on 1 December. He is survived by his wife, Pat, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage, and their three children: Jo, Sarah, and Thomas. His family conveyed that Mr. Rich “died peacefully” and expressed that this period should be dedicated to commemorating his life. Justin Leigh, a former presenter for BBC Spotlight, remarked: “Whenever I think of Craig, I think of laughter. Smiling and laughter.” “He had a twinkle in his eye and an almost boy-ish love of telling jokes.” “So, no matter how stressful and panic-stricken the newsroom could be sometimes, the moment Craig arrived was a moment of joy every day.” “He brightened the day no end.” Beyond his broadcasting work, Mr. Rich’s professional trajectory included serving as the head of the Department of Shipping and Transport at Plymouth Polytechnic, where he also functioned as a lecturer and tutor. In 1968, he provided expertise as a navigation advisor to the Sunday Times for the Round the World Yacht Race. Before embarking on his media career, he enlisted in the merchant navy upon graduating from Devonport High School for Boys at the age of 16, subsequently commanding vessels globally. His primary maritime routes were established between South Africa and the United Kingdom. Mr. Rich held qualifications as both a fully-qualified master mariner and an extra master mariner. For updates from BBC Cornwall, connect on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Similarly, BBC Devon can be followed on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story submissions can be directed to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights are reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.