ITV's Good Morning Britain took a poignant turn on Thursday as presenter Susanna Reid delivered the sad news of Baroness Helen Newlove's death to viewers.
Emotional Tribute on Morning Television
During the November 13th broadcast, Reid paused the programme's regular coverage to honour the memory of the Victims' Commissioner for England and Wales, who passed away aged 63 following a short illness.
"Just before we go, Baroness Newlove, the victims' commissioner, who did so much for those without a voice who are victims of crime," Reid told the audience. "Her own husband was murdered by a gang of teenagers, and she died aged 63. She was appointed victims' commissioner twice as she was doing such a good job."
Cross-Party Advocate for Victims
The programme featured Baroness Ayesha Yousef Hazarika, who spoke movingly about her colleague and friend. "This is absolutely devastating news," Hazarika stated. "She was such a brave, principled, and determined woman."
Hazarika highlighted how Newlove's personal tragedy - the murder of her husband Garry by teenagers - shaped her remarkable public service. "What was so great about Baroness Newlove is that she always spoke for the victims, and she was completely cross-party, she reached out to everybody, and she spoke from the heart."
She described Newlove as a "strong voice" for victims and recalled how supportive she had been during their time working together in the House of Lords.
Political Tributes and Legacy
The Office of the Victims' Commissioner confirmed the sad news in an official statement, describing Helen as "a committed and passionate advocate for victims, drawing on her own experience of the criminal justice system."
Justice Secretary David Lammy paid tribute, stating: "Helen was an extraordinary public servant whose life's work and her legacy are defined by courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice."
Former Conservative prime minister David Cameron added: "Desperately sad to hear that Helen Newlove has died. Helen was so wonderful, warm, brave and plain speaking. She suffered the tragedy of watching her beloved husband, Garry, being murdered by thugs - and then turned that experience into a second life of service."
As Susanna Reid concluded the emotional segment, she simply said: "We send our love to her family," capturing the sentiment felt by many across the political spectrum and beyond.
