The world of television and radio was left in shock just eight months ago following the death of much-loved broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan.
The Co. Limerick-native had been battling cancer, and passed away surrounded by his family – he was 77-years-old.
.@achrisevans gives The Tribute to #TerryWogan. Wogan gave Chris some great advice: "They either like you, or they don't." pic.twitter.com/wuaRJNcOKa
— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) September 27, 2016
At the time of his death, Terry was described as a “national treasure”, something that was reiterated at his memorial service in Westminster Abbey today.
The service was held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the BBC star’s first television appearance, and was attended by Chris Evans - who lead the tributes, Joanna Lumley - who read a poem, Claudia Winkleman, Gaby Roslin, Tess Daly, and Fearne Cotton.
.@katiemelua is singing "The Closest Thing to Crazy" by Mike Batt at the #TerryWogan service. pic.twitter.com/Nrp1XuEPVX
— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) September 27, 2016
Describing his friend as “the best”, Chris gave an emotional reading where he recalled a number of hilarious memories with the late star.
"I started listening when I was 17. I know I was 17 because it was in my first car after I passed my test," he started.
"I suppose I should have been listening to Radio 1, but Terry was livelier, quirkier, cheekier, naughtier, he was happier to be there, he was excited to be there...
"And he was completely uncool, which I thought was really cool."
.@JoannaLumley reads "For the Former Greatest Living Irishman, a tribute she and @RichardStilgoe wrote for #TerryWogan. pic.twitter.com/locHEziN5a
— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) September 27, 2016
But Chris wasn’t alone in paying tribute; Lord Hall called the broadcaster “a national treasure”, going on to say the “often over-used phrase was entirely appropriate” for the star.
Terry’s children Alan, Mark and Katherine also paid their respects, thanking their father for his “love of our mother, his children and grandchildren”, as well as “his life’s work, warmth and humour.”
His wife, Helen, was also in attendance.
Lady Wogan and the Wogan family on the steps of the Abbey after the #TerryWogan service. pic.twitter.com/TpC3gpX8pA
— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) September 27, 2016
