Annabel Giles, beloved TV and radio presenter, dies aged 64
Annabel Giles, famed British television and radio presenter, has died aged 64. Known for her striking looks, sharp wit, and compassionate heart, she also made her mark as a counsellor, psychotherapist, model, actress, and novelist. Annabel’s vibrant career and dedication to helping others left a lasting impact on many.
From Boarding School Rebel to Beauty Model
Born in Griffithstown near Pontypool, Monmouthshire, Annabel was the eldest of three sisters. Her rebellious streak saw her kicked out of boarding school at just 16 for sneaking off to a Bristol concert — a sign of her fierce independence and lifelong passion for music.
Starting out behind the scenes as a secretary in ad agencies from 1977 to 1982, Annabel’s life changed during a Boots No.7 cosmetics shoot. Royal make-up artist Barbara Daly spotted her stunning features and suggested a photoshoot. This led to a contract with top agency Models 1 and becoming Max Factor’s official model. Her captivating looks quickly made her a highly sought-after face in the modelling world.
TV Fame and Literary Success
The ’90s saw Annabel grace screens on shows like Razzmatazz, Night Network, and the film Riders. She co-hosted ITV’s Posh Frocks and New Trousers with Sarah Greene and was a popular panellist on hit shows including Have I Got News for You, Shooting Stars, and Loose Ends on BBC Radio 4.
Annabel’s talent went beyond presenting. She wrote and performed one-woman shows at the Edinburgh Festival and published novels like Birthday Girls, Crossing the Paradise Line, and The Defrosting of Charlotte Small, proving she was a true creative force.
Reality TV and Personal Trials
In 2013, Annabel took on the Australian jungle as a contestant on I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Though she was the first to be voted off, her adventurous spirit won the hearts of viewers.
Later, she retrained as a counsellor and psychotherapist, supporting clients in Brighton and beyond. Her empathy shone through both professionally and through charity work, notably as a patron of Amaze Brighton, aiding parents of children with special needs.
Family Life and Final Battle
Annabel was married to Midge Ure, Ultravox frontman and humanitarian. They had daughter Molly McQueen in 1987, who later became lead singer of pop-punk band The Faders. Though Annabel and Midge split in 1989, they remained close co-parents.
She also raised son Ted Giles, who faced the challenges of XYY syndrome and Asperger’s. Annabel received crucial support for Ted’s care from an anonymous benefactor in 2011, underscoring her fierce dedication as a mother.
Tragically, Annabel was diagnosed with cancer in July 2023. She passed peacefully on 20 November 2023 at Martlets Hospice in Hove. Her children honoured her as a loving mum, gifted professional, and inspiration to many.
Annabel Giles’ fiery spirit, diverse talents, and generous heart will be remembered by all who knew her and those she touched throughout her extraordinary life.
