Sue Baker death: Top Gear presenter dies aged 67
Former Top Gear presenter Sue Baker has died aged 67 after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
Baker’s family confirmed the news of her death in a statement issued on Monday (14 November).
“It is with very great sadness that we share the news of Sue’s passing,” reads the statement.
“A doting mother to Ian and Hannah, a loving grandmother to Tom and George, a wonderful mother-in-law to Lucy.”
Baker died on Monday morning (14 November) with “family around her”.
Her family went on to describe the journalist as a “talented and prolific writer, a charismatic presenter, and a passionate animal lover” who was “admired and respected by all who knew her”.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported her over the last few years as she battled with MND [motor neurone disease].”
Baker was one of the original presenters of Top Gear, joining the series in 1980.
She appeared on more than 100 episodes of the popular programme until 1991.
She also served as the Observer’s motoring editor for 13 years, exiting her role in 1995.
It is with sadness that Sue's family shares this news. Thank you to everyone sharing memories, we are taking solice in them. pic.twitter.com/CvjxuU8uQO
— Sue Baker (@carscribe) November 14, 2022
We are deeply saddened to learn our vice-president and former chair, @carscribe Sue Baker, passed away this morning following a long illness. Sue was a pioneer for women in automotive journalism and a former presenter of @BBC_TopGear. A full tribute will be published later. pic.twitter.com/pmEk88joOl
— The GoMW (@gomw_uk) November 14, 2022
As per The Guardian, she also set up and ran the Motor Racing News Service, based at the Kent motor racing track Brands Hatch. Baker also worked for Saga Magazine, and as a freelance writer.
Following news of her death, tributes have been paid on social media.
The Guild of Motoring Writers – of which Baker was vice preseint and former chair – called her a “pioneer for women in automotive journalism”.
