Annabel Giles has died aged 64 known as a beloved British television and radio presenter, as well as a talented counsellor, psychotherapist, model, actress, and novelist. She touched the lives of many through her diverse career and her dedication to helping others.
Born in Griffithstown, near Pontypool, Monmouthshire, in Wales, Annabel was the eldest of three sisters. She had a rebellious spirit, which led to her expulsion from boarding school at the age of 16 for attending a concert in Bristol. This early experience demonstrated her independent nature and love for music.
Annabel began her career as a secretary, working in advertising agencies from 1977 to 1982. It was during a shoot for Boots No. 7 cosmetics that her life took an unexpected turn. Royal make-up artist Barbara Daly noticed her beauty and suggested capturing it in a photograph. This led to Annabel being signed by top agency Models 1 and becoming the official model for Max Factor. Her striking features and captivating presence made her a sought-after figure in the industry.
In the 1990s, Annabel made her mark in the media world, appearing in television shows such as Razzmatazz, Night Network, and the film Riders. She gained prominence as the co-presenter of ITV’s Posh Frocks and New Trousers alongside Sarah Greene. Annabel’s wit and charm made her a popular choice for game shows and panellist roles, including Have I Got News for You, Shooting Stars, Through the Keyhole, and Loose Ends on BBC Radio 4. Her talent extended beyond the screen, as she wrote and performed one-woman shows at the Edinburgh Festival and published several novels, including Birthday Girls, Crossing the Paradise Line, and The Defrosting of Charlotte Small.
In 2013, Annabel ventured into the Australian jungle as a contestant on the 13th season of I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Although she was the first to leave the jungle, her adventurous spirit and willingness to take on new challenges endeared her to the audience. She continued to make appearances on various television shows and became the resident agony aunt on the Eleri Sion show for BBC Radio Wales.
Later in her career, Annabel followed her passion for helping others by retraining as a counsellor and psychotherapist. She dedicated herself to supporting individuals in Brighton and London, utilising her empathetic nature and understanding to make a positive impact on their lives. Annabel’s compassion extended beyond her professional work, as she served as a patron for Amaze Brighton, a charity supporting parents of children with special needs.
In her personal life, Annabel was married to Midge Ure, the lead singer of Ultravox and a philanthropist known for his involvement in Band Aid and Live Aid. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Molly McQueen, in 1987. Molly followed in her parents’ footsteps and became the lead singer of the pop punk group The Faders. Despite their separation in 1989, Annabel and Midge remained connected through their shared love for their children. Annabel also had a son named Ted Giles, who faced the challenges of XYY syndrome and Asperger syndrome. In 2011, she received support from an anonymous benefactor to help with Ted’s education, highlighting her dedication to ensuring her children’s well-being.
Tragically, Annabel’s life was cut short when she was diagnosed with cancer in July 2023. She passed away on 20 November 2023 at Martlets Hospice in Hove. Her children released a statement announcing her peaceful departure, remembering her as a loving mother, a talented professional, and a source of inspiration to many.
Annabel Giles will be fondly remembered for her vibrant spirit, diverse talents, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the memories she created.
