The mother of a little girl who was killed by a teenager in York has paid tribute to the sensitivity and support shown to her family by the broadcaster Harry Gration.
Harry died suddenly yesterday, aged 71, prompting a wave of tributes.
Alison Rough met the BBC Look North anchor at an incredibly tragic time, soon after her seven-year-old daughter Katie, was killed on a playing field next to Alness Drive in Woodthorpe, York, in January 2017.
She told David Dunning on YorkMix Radio: “When he came to our house he was always sensitive. He was just an overall good guy – we’re just shocked.
“He helped us with the fundraising. He helped promote the fundraising that we did the kids in Uganda.
“Obviously did a lot of his own fundraising which was hugely successful. He just got the word out there that Team Rough were doing that which got got people to sponsor us and raise money for those kids.
“We were just in shock. So sorry for his family.”
Tributes flooded in from the world of media, sport and politics following the news of Harry’s death.
Channel 5 news presenter Dan Walker, who recently left his role on BBC Breakfast, tweeted: “Harry would often call to talk & once, I’d been hammered in the press for something, he called with the kindest & most helpful words of encouragement.
“He cared. He was brilliant to work with, wonderful to watch & just a true gentleman”.
Leeds United described Gration as “a magnificent journalist and a pillar of our community”, while Yorkshire County Cricket Club tweeted: “We are deeply saddened to discover that former board member and friend of the Club, Harry Gration, has passed away. Our thoughts are with Harry’s friends and families at this difficult time.”
Baroness Sayeeda Warsi said she was “shocked and deeply saddened”.
She tweeted: “Harry was one of the kindest, most approachable people in journalism. His support for good causes &his love for #Yorkshire was unmeasurable. Always had time for a chat.
“RIP Mr Look North – you will be missed by so many.”