Veteran newsreader Bill Pitt died last night (November 17), aged 80, in Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital after a short illness.
He had been a senior member of the Academy FM Thanet news team since joining the station in 2013, and was a helpful mentor to less experienced colleagues.
Station manager Bob Mower said: “We’re in total shock. Bill was playing an active part in our programmes until just a few days ago.
“He was a lively character who’d had an interesting life, and he was a natural on the air. And with his particular background, he was also a natural at our public events.
“He was a lovely bloke and he’ll be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to his wife Janet and his family and friends.”
Bill Pitt was born in Brixton Hill, south London. After National Service in the Royal Army Service Corps, he worked in lighting design, management training and local government. Living in Croydon for much of his life, he served as Liberal MP for Croydon North West in the early 1980s.
Bill moved to Broadstairs in 1988 with Janet, who is an artist and a retired teacher.
In recent years, Bill has sung in local choirs and been chairman of Broadstairs Music Recital Society. The society presented its final concert in March, but Bill and Janet continued to organise classical events at York Street Methodist Church in Broadstairs.
Losing Bill will leave a great gap in so many lives. He was a man who walked his talk. RIP Bill
At Academy FM we have lost a good newsreader, mentor, friend and creative supporter of the Station. Thanet has lost so much more. A brilliant photographer, singing stalwart of several choirs, active U3A member and promoter, Broadstairs Methodist Church active member, classical music promoter and much more besides. Active to the last, time for a long rest Bill. Our thoughts go out to Janet.
Bill a very lovely man. I use to live down the road from Bill & Janet. Both Bill & Janet helped and supported me as friends when I went through a hard time. Much love and hugs toJanet. You are very much in my prayers ???? God bless you and your daughter at this difficult time. From Wendy James.
I was Bill’s Election Agent when he became an MP in 1981. He was a lovely man and I have many fond memories of campaigning with him. Deepest sympathies to his wife Janet and family.