Ground Force star Tommy Walsh made a heartfelt wish during his final television appearance, days before his death at the age of 69. His agent confirmed the news on Monday, stating: "Tommy died peacefully after a long illness surrounded by his family. As this has only just happened, we would ask everyone to please respect the family's privacy."
Final Appearance on Homes Under The Hammer
Walsh's last TV appearance was on the BBC property show Homes Under The Hammer, with the episode airing just days before his death. In the episode, he visited a Grade II listed cottage in poor condition. The DIY and property expert revealed he could not enter the building, fearing it would collapse on him.
Despite its dilapidated state, a mother and son duo, Shirley and Connor, decided to purchase the property. While chatting with the family, Walsh made a heartfelt wish, telling them "he was looking forward to seeing how it turned out" while acknowledging it would take years for the cottage to be fully restored.
Unfinished Restoration
Unfortunately, the work was not completed during the episode, meaning Walsh would not be able to see the refurbished cottage following his death. Shirley and Connor had big plans for the cottage, but the restoration was left unfinished at the time of his passing.
Tributes Pour In
Since the news of his death, tributes have poured in for the beloved presenter. Alan Titchmarsh said: "Working with Tommy Walsh on Ground Force was a delight. Whether we were arguing over the ratio of plants to decking, battling clouds of sawdust that threatened to engulf my plants or collapsing in fits of giggles thanks to a chance remark.
"Sometimes we only had to glance at one another to become convulsed with laughter and totally lose the plot. The five years I worked with Tommy and Charlie on that literally ground-breaking programme were among the happiest of my life. He was a force of nature, and I shall miss his company and his merciless teasing of 'Mr T'. He was a complete one-off."
Tommy's Homes Under The Hammer co-star Martin Roberts also paid tribute to his friend and colleague following the news.
