THE Steve Prescott Foundation has shared a moving tribute to former news presenter Beccy Barr who has died following a cancer fight.

The former BBC North West Tonight presenter, who later became a firefighter, has died aged 46.

She joined the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service in September 2019, after 20 years as a journalist and seven with BBC’s North West Tonight.

During her time on North West Tonight she covered various St Helens stories and joined in charity challenges for the Steve Prescott Foundation, including in 2015 when she was part of a team of 38 climbers that scaled Mount Kilimanjaro in six days, instead of the more usual time of nine.

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The world's highest game of rugby league was played during the challenge.

Those who took part included former rugby league stars Adrian Morley, Lee Briers, Barrie McDermott and former Saint Alan Hunte.

Beccy, with Barrie McDermott during the Kilimanjaro challengeBeccy, with Barrie McDermott during the Kilimanjaro challenge (Image: SPF)

Town centre retailer Chris O'Dea and Imperial Bar owner Ian Pitts were also among the squad.

In a tribute, Beccy was described as "a vibrant lady with a passion for life" who "would tackle anything put in front of her".

Beccy was 'a shining star'

On social media, The Steve Prescott Foundation posted: "It is with deepest sadness to hear of the passing of Beccy Barr former BBC North West Tonight presenter!

"Beccy was a vibrant lady with a passion for life and would tackle anything put in front of her.

"In 2015 we asked Beccy if she could put a word in at BBC North West Tonight to see if they would cover our Guinness World Records attempt of the highest game of Rugby League, as you can see from the video below, in her zest for a challenge, Beccy seized the opportunity and led from the front to become a World Record Holder.

Beccy became a familiar face across the region on North West TonightBeccy became a familiar face across the region on North West Tonight (Image: BBC)

"A phenomenal team player with a wicked sense of humour, tackled cancer like everything else in her life……..head on with a smile on her face.

"Our hearts and prayers are with all her family and friends and we will celebrate your life in the way you would have wished.

"A shining star Beccy Barr."

A post on Beccy’s account on X read: “I’m sharing the very sad news that Beccy passed away peacefully this morning.

"She spent her last few days at @SJHospice who provided the most dignified & compassionate care to Beccy & her whole family. Donations to the hospice can be made in Beccy’s memory.”