
The widow of much-loved BBC health expert Dr Michael Mosley has shared the profoundly moving final wish they expressed to each other just moments before he disappeared on the Greek island of Symi, a tragedy that captivated the nation.
In an emotionally charged interview, Dr Clare Bailey Mosley recounted the hauntingly ordinary yet now heartbreaking exchange she had with her husband of nearly four decades as he set off for a coastal walk on that fateful Wednesday afternoon.
"We just said, 'Have a lovely time' and that was it," Dr Clare revealed, her words heavy with the weight of what was to come. That simple, everyday farewell would become their final conversation.
The Agonising Search for a National Treasure
The disappearance of the 67-year-old television presenter, known for his programmes on BBC Radio 4 and The One Show, triggered an intensive five-day search operation across the rugged terrain of Symi. Greek emergency services, volunteers, and even the police helicopter scoured the landscape in a desperate attempt to locate the missing doctor.
Dr Clare spoke of the unbearable tension during those days of uncertainty, clinging to hope while fearing the worst. The massive operation would ultimately end in tragedy when Dr Mosley's body was discovered in a rocky area near Agia Marina beach.
A Life Dedicated to Public Health
Dr Mosley's career was defined by his remarkable ability to translate complex medical science into practical advice for millions. Through his regular appearances on The One Show and his groundbreaking BBC Radio 4 programmes, he became one of Britain's most trusted health voices.
He was particularly celebrated for popularising the 5:2 diet and for his accessible explanations of medical research, making him a household name and genuine national treasure whose work improved countless lives.
A Love Story Cut Short
Dr Clare Bailey Mosley, herself a respected medical professional and author, spoke of their 37-year marriage with evident devotion. The couple, who met as medical students, had built not just a family with their four children but also a professional partnership, co-authoring several books on health and nutrition.
Her tribute paints a picture of a brilliant mind who remained "curious, enthusiastic and fun" throughout their life together—a man who never lost his passion for understanding how things worked and for helping others live better lives.
The tragic circumstances of Dr Mosley's death have sparked an outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans, and the medical community worldwide, all mourning the loss of a man who dedicated his career to improving public health and wellbeing.