Judith Chalmers: TV presenter dies aged 90

Judith Chalmers, the celebrated television presenter best known for hosting ITV’s iconic travel programme *Wish You Were Here…?*, has passed away at the age of 90. Her family shared with ITV News that she died peacefully at home last night, surrounded by loved ones, after living with Alzheimer’s disease for several years. They reflected on her extraordinary broadcasting career that spanned more than six decades, filled with numerous adventures worldwide.

Throughout her extensive career, Chalmers was involved in a variety of television and radio projects. Aside from *Wish You Were Here…?*, she presented shows such as *Come Dancing* and ITV’s *Good Afternoon*. Her voice was also familiar to radio listeners through appearances on *Woman’s Hour* and her own programme on BBC Radio 2. Her family expressed that while she will be deeply missed, she leaves behind a treasure trove of joyful memories.

Chalmers began hosting the primetime travel show *Wish You Were Here…?* in 1974 and continued in this role for nearly 30 years until 2003. ITV paid tribute to her, calling her one of the most cherished figures in British broadcasting. An ITV spokesperson said, “Her indelible contribution to television made Judith a national treasure and a lasting favourite amongst our audience.” They extended their heartfelt condolences to her family and friends at this difficult time.

Born in Gatley near Manchester, Judith Chalmers embarked on her broadcasting journey at just 13 years old, beginning with the radio programme *Children’s Hour*. She later transitioned to television in the 1950s through the *Children’s Television Club*, a forerunner to *Blue Peter*. After moving to London, she became an on-screen announcer for the BBC and later shifted to ITV, where she presented various daytime magazine shows. Among these were *Good Afternoon* and *Afternoon Plus*, the latter notable for featuring early television appearances by Dame Mary Berry. Chalmers also presented other events such as *Miss World* and hosted a daily morning show on BBC Radio 2 in the early 1990s.

In 1994, Judith Chalmers was honored with an OBE for her services. She was married to sports presenter Neil Durden-Smith, with whom she had two sons. Their son, Mark Durden-Smith, followed in her footsteps and became a TV presenter. In 2008, he hosted *Wish You Were Here…? Now & Then*, a revival of the original travel show that revisited classic destinations

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