Dianne Oxberry was more than a familiar face on North West television. She was a trusted voice, a welcome presence in homes across the UK, and a broadcaster whose warmth and authenticity resonated with millions. Her sudden passing in January 2019 at just 51 years old, following a short battle with ovarian cancer, left a void that many viewers and colleagues still feel acutely.
Early Life and Path to Broadcasting
Born in Sunderland in 1967, Oxberry’s journey into broadcasting began at the BBC as a personal assistant at Radio 2. Her gentle North Eastern accent and approachable style quickly set her apart. She worked alongside household names like Steve Wright and Simon Mayo on BBC Radio 1 in the 1980s and 1990s, reading weather and travel updates with a distinctive flair. Her transition to television came with her role on “The 8:15 from Manchester,” a children’s programme where she met her future husband, Ian Hindle.
Their partnership was both personal and professional, leading to a marriage in 1993 and a move to Greater Manchester. It marked the start of her North West broadcasting career that would span over two decades.
The Face of North West Tonight
Oxberry’s commitment to her craft saw her study meteorology before joining BBC North West Tonight in 1994 as the station’s first dedicated weather presenter. For 23 years, she brought clarity and reassurance to every forecast. Her ability to put viewers at ease, combined with her understanding of the unpredictable British weather, made her much more than a forecaster—she became a cherished broadcaster to whom people turned in all seasons.
But her contribution extended beyond the weather. She fronted current affairs programmes like “Inside Out North West” and took on challenging stories that showcased her journalistic integrity. In 2018, she received a Royal Television Society award for investigating risks faced by women using taxis—an example of her commitment to meaningful, local reporting.
Bringing People Together Both On and Off Air
It is no exaggeration to say Dianne Oxberry was a household name. Her easy rapport with audiences brought a sense of unity. As tributes poured in after her death, it became clear she was family to many who never met her. Viewers and listeners described her as authentic and genuine, reflecting not just her professionalism, but her warmth as a person.
Her colleagues often highlighted this quality, too. “She was as lovely in real life as she appeared on TV,” said Roger Johnson, a fellow BBC North West Tonight presenter. Annabel Tiffin called her “so talented, so beautiful, so funny and so full of life.” Others recalled the joy she brought to the newsroom and her ability to lift spirits, even on rain-soaked days.
Family and Personal Life
Dianne’s life outside of television was marked by devotion to her family. She and Ian Hindle had two young children and made their home in Sale, Greater Manchester. In interviews, her husband described her as an “amazing wife and mother who embraced life to the full,” capturing the affection of both family and friends.
Her death in January 2019 came only weeks after the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. The shock was profound, both for her family and her public audience. Her funeral, attended by close friends, colleagues, and regional dignitaries, drew tributes that underlined her impact on the region and the people who regarded her as part of their daily lives.
The Dianne Oxberry Trust: Building a Lasting Legacy
Out of the collective grief that followed Oxberry’s death emerged a powerful legacy. Her husband Ian Hindle channelled the community’s grief into establishing the Dianne Oxberry Trust. The charity focuses on raising awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms, supporting affected families, and promoting earlier diagnosis to improve outcomes. The Trust’s visibility has grown rapidly—raising over £150,000 in its first year alone—and has been pivotal in shaping local health campaigns.
Spotlight on Ovarian Cancer Awareness
The Dianne Oxberry Trust maintains an active partnership with the NHS and cancer awareness groups. One of the more prominent initiatives is the “This Van Can” ovarian cancer awareness roadshow, launched across Greater Manchester. Featuring Dianne’s image and story, the mobile unit provides essential information about symptoms like persistent bloating, abdominal pain, and urinary changes—key messages in the fight against late diagnosis.
Dr Nadia Ali-Ross, NHS lead for gynaecological cancers in Greater Manchester, says efforts like these are vital, as only a small percentage of women know that persistent bloating can signal ovarian cancer. When diagnosed early, 9 in 10 cases are treatable, underscoring the importance of public education.
Jo Rosenberg, chair of the Dianne Oxberry Trust, expressed hope that these initiatives would ensure other families are spared the devastation of late diagnosis. Educational roadshows and community engagement are helping to save lives, all while keeping Dianne’s spirit alive.
Community, Gardens, and Sunshine
Tributes to Oxberry have taken many forms, from social media outpourings to public memorials. In 2022, a rose garden dedicated to her memory was opened at MediaCity, where she spent much of her career. There is also a ‘Sunshine Garden’ showcased at the RHS Tatton flower show, celebrating the joy and positivity she brought to those around her.
Her knack for making every forecast a ray of sunshine—no matter the weather—remains a fond memory. Comedian Peter Kay once gatecrashed her live weather report, joking, “Dianne Oxberry… God love her… you’ve made sunshine for everybody.” His words capture the feelings of many who tuned in each night.
Conclusion:
Dianne Oxberry remains a much-loved figure whose legacy reaches far beyond her broadcasting career. Through her warmth, integrity, and dedication to public service, she touched countless lives across the North West and the UK. The continuing work of the Dianne Oxberry Trust and the heartfelt tributes in her memory reflect the enduring impact she made—not only as a trusted journalist but as an inspiration for community spirit, cancer awareness, and genuine kindness. Her influence lives on, reminding us all of the difference one person can make.
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