John Shires, the veteran broadcaster who presented ITV's Calendar News for more than three decades, has died at the age of 71. He passed away on Wednesday, 1 July, at St James's Hospital in Leeds, surrounded by his family, after what ITV described as a period of illness.
Colleagues Pay Tribute
His long-time co-host Gaynor Barnes led the tributes, calling him "a class act" and "a gentleman." She added: "He was so clever and, my goodness, he was funny. I so appreciate that we worked together for 30 years – it's a long long time, but he made it fun. He really did. He was such a character. He was unique. He was a Calendar legend. He will be so sorely missed by us all."
Journalist Christine Talbot also shared a moving tribute on Instagram, writing: "It's hard to describe the hole in our lives that John Shires leaves among everyone who knew and loved him." She described him as "the most incredible man – a brilliant, fiercely clever journalist, producer, editor and broadcaster who adapted to every change in our industry with ease."
Career Highlights
Shires began his journalism career as a reporter at the Pontefract and Castleford Express before joining ITV Calendar in 1989. Over the next 32 years, he covered major events including the Hillsborough disaster and led ITV News Calendar's coverage of the 2012 London Olympics.
Talbot's tribute also noted his personal passions: "Whether you were playing cricket or golf, sailing, watching your beloved Huddersfield Town, or simply enjoying a good party! Television was never your everything, despite your talent… Your family and friends were. And we will miss you so, so much."
Family and Legacy
Shires is survived by his wife Shirley, daughters Emma and Hannah, and his grandsons. ITV confirmed his death in a statement, noting that he had been ill for some time. His colleague Barnes summed up the sentiment of many: "He was a Calendar legend. He will be so sorely missed."
