TV Pioneer Martin Muncaster Dies Aged 89
Martin Muncaster, the trailblazing presenter of the BBC’s first-ever regional TV show for southern England, has died at 89. He was the original face of South Today, hosting the programme from 1961 to 1964 when it was known as South at Six.
A Star Is Born on Regional TV
Muncaster once called his time on the show “a terrific feeling of starting something brand new” and “one of the happiest times” in his career. The South East lost one of its local TV legends when he passed away peacefully at his home in Steep, near Petersfield.
From Southern TV to BBC Icon
Back in 1958, Muncaster auditioned for a BBC TV in-vision announcer role. Initially booked for two weeks, his gig stretched on for several months thanks to his charm and talent. That same year, he joined Southern TV in Southampton ahead of its launch, working as announcer, newsreader, and reporter until 1960 alongside other soon-to-be names like Meryl O’Keeffe and Julian Pettifer.
He returned to the BBC to launch its Southampton local news show. While the South Western House studio was under construction, Muncaster worked out of Bristol with presenters Tom Salmon and reporter Ken Duck.
Regional News Legend
From January 5, 1961, until 1964, Muncaster fronted South at Six, which eventually became South Today. With colleagues like Valerie Sargeant (later Lady Solti), Ron Allison, and Johnny Johnston, he became a beloved local celebrity.
His vibrant presence and pioneering work forever shaped regional broadcasting and the delivery of local news. Martin Muncaster’s legacy endures in every corner of southern England’s TV screens — remembered fondly by viewers and colleagues alike.
