Top Gear’s Sue Baker dies aged 67 following motor neurone disease battle-Cydney Yeates-Entertainment – Metro

Sue Baker died surrounded by her loved ones (Picture: BBC)

Top Gear presenter Sue Baker has died aged 67 after suffering from motor neurone disease (MND), her family has confirmed.

The motoring journalist, who was a host on the original BBC series from 1980 to 1991, died on Monday morning (November 14) surrounded by her loved ones.

‘It is with great sadness, that we share the news of Sue’s passing,’ a statement said.

‘A doting mother to Ian and Hannah, a loving grandmother to Tom & George, and a wonderful mother-in-law to Lucy. She passed at home this morning with family around her.

‘She was a talented and prolific writer, a charismatic TV presenter, and a passionate animal lover.

‘She had a life and career that many would envy, but did it all with such grace that she was admired and respected by all who knew her. We know she meant so much to so many.’

The statement concluded: ‘Thank you to everyone who has supported her over the last few years as she battled with MND.’

Tributes have poured in for Baker following the news of her death, with one writing: ‘This is very sad. Sue Baker was a pioneer among motoring journalists who was very friendly to me when I was a newcomer on car launches & the like.’

Another said: ‘Sad to hear of the passing of Sue Baker today. Grew up watching her on Top Gear and she continued to be a great influence in motoring media. Condolences to family and friends. RIP Sue.’

The original series of Top Gear aired on BBC Two between 1997 and 2001 and focussed on a range of motoring topics.

The show was initially hosted by Angela Rippon and Tom Coyne, but also saw a number of presenters and reporters front the show’s half-hourly slots, including the likes of Jeremy Clarkson, Noel Edmonds, and Tiff Needell.

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When Top Gear was eventually cancelled in 2001 over low viewing figures, Clarkson and fellow presenter Andy Wilman convinced BBC bosses to revive it with a revamped format.

The programme relaunched in 2002 with Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and Jason Dawe at the helm.

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