Christopher Serle, a beloved BBC TV presenter, reporter, and actor, passed away on September 23, 2024, at the age of 81. Serle was best known for his work on the popular consumer affairs show “That’s Life!” and his adventurous series “In at the Deep End.
Serle’s journey in broadcasting began after his education at Clifton College and Trinity College, Dublin, where he studied modern languages. His television career took off in 1971 when he appeared alongside Irish comedian Dave Allen in “Dave Allen at Large.” However, it was his role as a presenter on “That’s Life!” that brought him widespread recognition in the UK.
Throughout his career, Serle showcased his versatility across various programs. He co-presented “In at the Deep End” with Paul Heiney, a series that saw them tackle professional situations without prior experience. In the 1980s, he hosted “Windmill,” a show featuring clips from the BBC archives, and the viewer-response program “Points of View.
Serle’s contributions to broadcasting extended beyond television. He was a regular host of BBC Radio’s “Pick of the Week” from 1991 to 1998 and continued as a frequent guest presenter until 2006. His expertise in technology was evident in his presentation of “The Computer Programme,” while his linguistic skills shone through in the BBC series “Greek Language and People.
In his later years, Serle remained active in the broadcasting community. Since 2005, he served as the honorary president of the Bristol Hospital Broadcasting Service, a charity providing radio services to Bristol hospitals.
Outside of his broadcasting career, Serle pursued his passion for automobiles as the president of the Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum.
Christopher Serle’s passing marks the end of an era in British broadcasting. His warm presence, versatility, and dedication to public service in television and radio will be remembered fondly by colleagues and viewers alike.
