I suspect they were both Eric. Always passionate about stories, always interested in your opinion, always kind. Switzerland is home to a plethora of mountain restaurants with jaw-dropping views. I write for the Washington Post, Boston Globe, Afar, Guardian Bradt and Delta simonwillistravels.wordpress.com. Ive received a face full of spit during an ancestral healing in Quito and played with wolves in Quebec. The former BBC Radio 1 Producer, who was also Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blogs author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. We launched a massive reader competition in search of a prospective bride and groom totie the knot on Valentines Day 2003. Morgans former colleague on Good Morning Britain Susanna Reid, a Pride of Britain judge, said: Great sadness at the loss of such a lovely, kind man. This article includes a television- and people-related list of lists. Peter was one of the first people working in Fleet Street I dealt with as a young provincial reporter. Newsprint in his DNA. Awful., Feature writer and editor Clare Goldwin said: Unbelievably sad. Photo / Doug Sherring Name: Simon Wilson Age: 60-something Job: Senior writer Location: Herald newsroom, Auckland. Simon had been ill for the last few years fighting cancer. Previously she spent four years at the Surrey Advertiser and has won prizes including Trainee Journalist of the Year at the NCTJ Awards of Excellence. Peters loss has been felt by so very many of us who are devastated he is no longer with us. He WAS the heart of the Mirror and, I believe, exemplified everything that is good about tabloid journalism. WebSimon Willis Cameraman in Scotland, United Kingdom. Plan routes throughout the country on electric trains powered by renewable energy, hybrid-electric buses, and boats using the SBB Mobile transit app. Switzerland flourishes as a country of innovation and diversity while putting an emphasis on protecting its pristine nature, timeworn architecture, and unique traditions. The fact that so many of us are still friends today, twenty years on, (and reeling about his death) says a lot about his ability to build, and inspire, a team. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Our hearts reach out to his wife Nicky and sons Theo and Henry. Switzerland offers much to do year-round, though summer and winter are the most popular seasons to visit. Sun executive showbiz editor Simon Boyle said: In a tough industry he was unwaveringly a good guy I know everyone says that when tragedy strikes, but its true here. Above all, my heart goes out to Nicky and the family. One of his favourite stories was the time in January 1923 when the aristocratic Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, newly engaged to The Duke of York, naively gave an interview to an audacious Mirror hack whoknocked on the door of her London residence with a photographer in tow. Jonny Bierman, who provided additional reporting, is a Vancouver-based sustainable travel journalist and photographer. Now comes the discipline: How companies are punishing work-from-home holdouts, Return to office: How companies are punishing holdouts, This 'Lost City' In Cambodia Is As Mesmerising As Angkor Wat, This 'Lost City' in Cambodia Is As Mesmerizing As Angkor Wat, With None of the Crowds, Rivian's post-IPO year from hell: How R.J. Scaringe's electric truckmaker stumbled, These Delicious Gins Distill the Essence of Singapore Into a Glass, Stealth remote workers are logging in from Bali-but keeping it secret, EPA Proposes to Designate Two PFAS Chemicals as Hazardous Substances Under CERCLA: Quick Answers to Top Questions | JD Supra, Responsible investment is the right response to news distrust, The Next Great Wave Of Craft Gin Has Arrived - In Singapore, The Next Great Wave of Craft Gin Has Arrived - in Singapore, This Writer Discovers The Secrets Of The Macquarie Islands On A Cruise, Indonesia's new capital city of Nusantara isn't living up to its symbolism, UK ceramist fired up for Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee, Single-photoelectron collection efficiency in 4D ultrafast electron microscopy, Companies leaving Hong Kong are eyeing Singapore, How bone-dry Beijing created snow for the games with Finnish expert Mikko Martikainen. Then, in the morning he would call me to say how we could have made it even better. List of current BBC newsreaders and reporters. During my editorship I relied greatly on that dynamism, that relentless drive and his wisecounsel. He never shied away from telling the difficult stories of young people who had struggled with drugs, homelessness, imprisonment or mental health issues and managed to turn their lives around. https://t.co/T4wRbWHQDr, Dan Wootton (@danwootton) June 28, 2021. He has contributed to the Washington Post, Independent, Yorkshire Post, Hire me. Your morning brew of news about the world of news from Press Gazette and elsewhere in the media. (@lisamarks) June 29, 2021, My days working on the Bizarre desk at The Sun were some of the best days of my life. He has contributed to the Washington Post, Independent, Yorkshire Post, Colombia Reports and Argentina Independent, among other publications. Twenty years ago he was Brad Willis, a hard-charging NBC News reporter who covered major stories in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Latin America. Most trains have dedicated spaces for luggage, skis, and snowboards, and many ski hills have trams and gondolas that run straight from train station terminals. My thoughts are with his family, friends and the many, many work colleagues (past and present) whose lives he touched. There are some very sore hearts in our industry today. Willis has worked as a freelance TV cameraman, photographer and media consultant. Very sad news. Among the most celebrated festivals is Swiss National Day on August 1; on this date seven centuries ago, the regions of the area took an oath of allegiance. This byline is mine, but I want my name removed. Feb 4, 2021, 07:30pm EST | Willis, played by Lance Henriksen, who has dementia, find a place to retire. 5 Reasons Why Switzerland Is the Ultimate Winter Escape for Every Traveler, Christmas Markets in Europe to Get You in the Holiday Spirit, The Family Getaway of Your Dreams Awaits in the Valais Region of Switzerland, Why The Top of Europe is the Stylish Adventure You Need, The Best Skiing (and Spas) in Valais, Switzerland, The Most Romantic Experiences in Switzerland, The Best Walks, Rides, and Drives in Switzerland, The Most Luxurious Experiences in Switzerland. What struck me about Peter more than anything was the interest he always took in the lives of his journalists outside the newsroom. List of former BBC newsreaders and journalists. Peter was forever striving for perfection and often achieved it. He was someone to laugh with and cry with, and all the bits in between. Heres Simon Willis in Plymouth in the early 90s. Ace operator on the road. https://t.co/QC29m2G2nZ, Jill Foster (@JournalistJill) June 28, 2021, https://twitter.com/Flashmanthrice/status/1409572439554723840, Devastating news. And it was the perfect recipe. It was allthe more hilarious as hed employ a plummy, high-pitched voice straight out of a pantomime. Can winter sports survive on a warming planet? I can hardly believe it. I knew Peter for more than 30 years. Daily Mirror associate editor Kevin Maguire said Willis was a lovely, gentle, funny and fantastic company as well as a great journalist gone far too soon. Fleet Street has lost one of its greats. In winter, many mountain passes are closed, so those traveling by car should contact Automobile Club der Schweiz before making a journey or better yet, catch the train. He gave me the work experience with @simonmayo that started me in radio. WebSimon Wilson Senior Writer Senior Writer, NZ Herald Ive been with the Herald since the start of 2018. When getting around by vehicle, drivers must purchase a tax disc (vignette), costing 40 Swiss francs (US$45). Swiss resorts are rated among the finest in Europe and attract visitors from around the world. Rules had changed and marriage ceremonies had been sanctioned at venues other than churches and register offices. This was the time when we went to a Chinese restaurant & I got confused and I ordered chicken feet. TV's Wendy in split from husband | The Northern Echo A mentor to myself and many others, his death leaves a huge void. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Simon Willisand simonwillistravelswith appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Rest easy mate.. The reception was held at Marco Pierre Whites Criterion restaurant in Piccadilly Circus. German, French, and Italian influences infuse different regions, and within these, nature-based gastronomy blends sustainable elements of food through locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients. So many people are hurting today, including Im sure yourself and your husband. Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. If he bumped into members of the RoyalFamily or celebrities anywhere, in any context, his opening gambit was always: I hope well be seeing you at Pride of Britain this year? The sensible ones knew But of course, Peter was the only acceptable response. Zoe Ball inundated with support His sudden death is not just a terrible loss to journalism but also an immeasurable loss to his wife Nicky and their two sons Theo and Henry whose progress he loved to talk about. Zurichs bike-rental facilities are conveniently located at three locations throughout the city, including the main train stationsimply show your passport, leave a deposit, and borrow a bike for free. Great journalist.We had some larks back in the day. But perhaps the simplest way to be a responsible traveler in Switzerland is to walk, bike, and take public transit. Simon Grundy celebrates 25 years of broadcasting on Wearside, It didnt have to be like this Local BBC Radio cuts by Nicky Horne, BBC Radio Nottingham daytime host Mark Dennison to depart, Caroline Martin announces her departure from BBC Radio WM, Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston give away 1m on Heart, BBC Chairman Richard Sharp to step down from his role, Folded Wing creates new Jamie Cullum for in-flight programmes, BBC local radio strike suspended and MP blasts BBC management, Pure to discontinue Flow platform for internet radio devices, Richard Park opens up on his radio career in new podcast, CMA to campaign for longer community radio licences following survey, BBC Radio 1 launches outreach programme ahead of Big Weekend, RadioToday is part of the TodayToday network, We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. This is devastating news. M xxx @dullington pic.twitter.com/naibk0O8Dz, Martin Burgess-Moon ?? Pair fine pinot noirs, chasselas, and quintessential Swiss mountain landscapes with a traditional fondue or raclette. All my love to his family. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Find me on The Once youd engaged with him on any story, idea, campaign or investigation there was no escape. Peter will be sadly missed by all those who knew him.. My thoughts and prayers are forever with Nicky and the boys. So much of that was due to Pete. RIP legend. I loved working for him. Surgery failed. Strong self-shooter on Canon XF 305. Simon Willis is a British journalist, and former BBC TV newsreader and reporter. Switzerland has pioneered one of the most efficient and sustainable transit systems in the worldand rather than buying individual journeys, travelers can access it all using the Swiss Travel Pass. He cared deeply about them and their families. In pic 1 hes in his flat on Grand Parade with a Radio Times. SImon Willis Terribly sad news. Jake Wallis Simons | Journalist Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Simon Willis, Author at Matador Network Peter frequently had everyone in stitches with his impression of the future queens awkward conversation with the reporter. BBC trained video journalist / self-shooting AP & Producer. Follow his adventures on Instagram at @ecoescape.travel, AFAR participates in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase an item featured on our site. 2023 AFAR Media. Simon is a sports nut, and when he is not adventure-seeking he is following his beloved Barnsley Football Club. He truly was the heart and soul of the Mirror office and his loss will be sorely felt by everyone lucky enough to have worked with him. The currency is the Swiss franc, though sometimes euros are accepted. Peter brimmed with energy, wit and fun. I get moaned at for taking lots of pics. Me. Zoe explained that she and Simon had worked together when she was a host on BBC's Radio 1. Many memories. We went on location trips to Spain and covered the Montreux TV Festival together, working like demons and laughing loud and long into the night. Devastating. (@BurgessMoon) March 3, 2021, Your spirit was everything Simon Willis thank you https://t.co/dRsAuq3sYS, Hayley Redmond (@HayleyFudge) March 3, 2021, Simon Willis was the guy who got me into Radio 1 over 20 years ago when he rang me; a nervous but keen student. For the English cricketer, see Simon Willis (cricketer). Tributes to Simon Willis after former Radio 1 producer loses Ill never forget his smile, charm and great chat. I have known Simon Willis since I was 14 (along with Lynne M). Set on the waterfront of Lake Geneva, this monthlong festival burgeons every year thanks to its delightful ambience, variety of music, and free entry to all but a few concerts. Be warned, thoughflash thunderstorms are not uncommon. My favourite memory of him was calling him from South Africa where I had spent the morning with a baby dying from Aids. Mirror executive editor and founder of the newspapers Pride of Britain Awards Peter Willis died suddenly on Friday, he was 54.