BBC Radio Merseyside Presenter Dies

He was the gentle voice of Britain's wildlife and the beating heart of "NatureWatch" — but now, he is gone, leaving behind a legacy of love, conservation, and a tidal wave of grief from those who adored him.

The British conservation and radio worlds are in mourning after the devastating death of Chris Tynan, the cherished voice behind "NatureWatch" on BBC Radio Merseyside. His passing, announced by his wife Belinda Tynan, on Sunday, 30 November, has triggered an outpouring of grief, love, and tributes from colleagues and fans alike.

Chris passed away peacefully at home on Friday afternoon.

"My wonderful husband Chris sadly passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family," Belinda wrote in a heartbreaking tribute posted online. Alongside her words, she shared tender family photos of Chris with their children — a gut-wrenching reminder of the man behind the microphone.

'Always Had Time for Me': Colleagues and Fans Mourn the BBC Icon

Tributes poured in immediately across social media, with colleagues remembering Chris as both a professional legend and a deeply kind human being.

Ecologist and photographer Austin Morley wrote, "The word legend gets used far to often, but today we lost a true legend. Sadly Chris Tynan, the former leader of the Liverpool Local RSPB group and a top bloke has passed away. Always had time for me, and always asked about the family. My condolences thoughts are with his family. [sic]"

Wildlife enthusiast Jack echoed the sentiment on X, writing, "Absolutely devastating news, our beloved RSPB leader and friend Chris Tynan has passed away. I'm lost for words really, he was a truly wonderful person and an inspiration to me. Rest in peace Chris x."

A Penguin Jumper and a Lasting Legacy

Environmentalist and presenter Anno Brandreth posted a warm tribute featuring a photo of Chris in his "wonderful penguin jumper" alongside the "NatureWatch" team. He expressed their hope to someday honour Chris in a future broadcast:

"He will be sadly missed, and we will hopefully do something in a future broadcast to honour him; it is a sad day for us all."

'You'll Never Walk Alone': His Final Fight, His Family's Love

Belinda's message revealed Chris had been battling illness for nine months with incredible bravery.

"He fought bravely for 9 months and we couldn't be more proud of him. We will love and miss him always. You'll Never Walk Alone 🕊️❤️," she wrote, signing off with the line that struck a deep emotional chord with listeners and Liverpool locals alike.

From Local Radio to Local Hero

"NatureWatch," now discontinued, had been a beloved fixture of BBC Radio Merseyside's breakfast and weekend shows until 2023. It often appeared as a segment within the "Paul Beesley" show, where Chris and other experts like Jeff Clarke of Anser Ecology and Richie the Ranger chatted with callers about birds, bugs, and backyard wildlife.

It was the radio moment for nature lovers across Merseyside — and Chris was at its heart. But Chris's influence extended far beyond the airwaves.

For 30 years, he led the Liverpool RSPB group, educating and inspiring countless birders, beginners, and veterans alike. In April 2025, he officially stepped down from his role — and in true Chris fashion, marked the milestone with warmth and humility.

"I have finally stepped down as group leader of RSPB Liverpool group after 30 yrs of volunteering," he wrote in what would become his final Instagram post. "It’s been a wonderful opportunity to show birds, habitats, and nature to so many people."

"Thanks also to my wife and family for allowing me to do this for so long," he added.

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A Devoted Husband, A Proud Family Man

Chris's deep love for nature was only matched by his devotion to his wife, Belinda, and their family. His social media was peppered with joyful snapshots of anniversaries, family trips, and quiet moments of affection.

In April 2022, Chris posted a photo of Belinda holding up a plate that read, "Happy Anniversary," celebrating 32 years of marriage with his signature charm.

By April 2025, the couple had reached 35 years together—and marked the occasion with a sun-soaked family vacation in Cyprus. "First visit to Cyprus and we loved it! 🌞🥂🏖😎," Belinda wrote, sharing a glimpse of the simple happiness that defined their life together.

Another Loss in Radio: Brian Hayes Passes Away

Chris's passing comes just as the radio world is still reeling from another heartbreaking loss: the death of Brian Hayes, the LBC legend who revolutionized British talk radio.

"Brian Hayes was one of the presenters who helped create the LBC we know today — absolute legend," wrote radio host Phil Riley.

"Very sad to hear the passing of the legendary Broadcaster Brian Hayes," added radio fan Luke Davies. "He was a formidable force on the Wireless... Radio has lost a true legend! RIP Brian!"

The End of an Era

Two legends, both gone. One from national airwaves, the other from the heart of Merseyside. Yet both leave behind a legacy that will echo on — through every garden bird spotted, every hedgerow walked, and every person inspired to care just a little more about the natural world.