Chris Tynan has died, his devastated colleagues have announced.
Chris Tynan, who presented NatureWatch on Radio Merseyside, has passed away, his heartbroken colleagues have confirmed on X.
Environmentalist and fellow presenter Anno Brandreth shared an emotional tribute on social media.
He wrote, “RIP Chris Tynan. Chris was a well loved and important part of the Naturewatch team and did great work locally to promote the things we love and are important to the listeners.”
Alongside a photograph of Chris with the NatureWatch team, they added, “He will be sadly missed and we will hopefully do something in a future broadcast to honour him, it’s a sad day for us all. Chris is here on the left in his wonderful penguin jumper.”
NatureWatch, which has now ended, ran as a regular slot on BBC Radio Merseyside’s breakfast and weekend programmes until 2023, reports the Mirror.
It frequently appeared as part of the beloved “Paul Beesley” show, cherished by wildlife enthusiasts who would regularly phone in, and featured local specialists including Jeff Clarke from Anser Ecology and Richie the Ranger, sharing insights on regional wildlife and horticultural tips.
Past episodes of the much-loved Merseyside programme can be found on BBC Sounds or the BBC Merseyside Facebook page.
Chris had also served as long-time leader of RSPB Liverpool, before standing down in April. In a message posted on their website back in May, the society wrote: “The impact Chris has had on both the group and the people of Merseyside more widely cannot be understated, and we will forever be in his debt. Chris has played a huge part in shaping many people’s love for birds and wildlife, inspiring us all to appreciate nature in every aspect.”
In what now reads as a poignant tribute, they continued: “The entire group would like to thank Chris for his dedication over many years. Chris will continue to lead the outdoor meetings until December, so there is still time to thank him in person! You will be sorely missed, but you are more than welcome back at any time!”.
