BBC Voice Gone Too Soon

Emma Britton, the much-loved BBC local radio host, has died aged 52 after being diagnosed with terminal stage four lung cancer in April 2025.

The broadcaster became a familiar name across the West Country through her work on BBC Radio Somerset and BBC Radio Bristol. For many listeners, Britton was more than a voice on the airwaves. She was a steady part of daily life in Somerset and Bristol, known for her warmth, local knowledge and close connection with the communities she served.

Her family paid tribute after her death, saying she had been "so grateful for the love and care shown to her in recent months". They also said they planned to remember her in the way she had wished, reflecting the compassion she had shown to many families during her work as a celebrant.

Gareth Roberts, executive editor of BBC Radio Bristol and BBC Radio Somerset, described Britton as one of the finest examples of BBC local broadcasting. He remembered her as a presenter whose affection for the West Country was clear in everything she did. Stephanie Marshall, Head of BBC West, also honoured Britton’s deep ties to Bridgwater and Somerset, saying her presence would not be forgotten.

Britton first joined BBC Radio Somerset in 2007. She later became host of the station’s breakfast show in 2013, before moving to BBC Radio Bristol in 2016, where she continued presenting for five years.

Her support for others in radio also formed part of her legacy. BBC presenter Andy Bennett has credited Britton with encouraging him at the start of his broadcasting career. Charlie Taylor later interviewed her for BBC Radio Somerset as she spoke publicly about living with cancer, while her story also reached a wider BBC audience through a connection with Jeremy Vine’s programme.

In February 2026, Britton raised more than £11,000 for ALK Positive UK, the lung cancer charity that supported her and her husband John following her diagnosis.

Britton’s death has left BBC local radio without one of its most recognisable regional voices. Across Somerset and Bristol, she will be remembered as a trusted presenter whose work was rooted in the people and places she cared about.