Bob wellings
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Frank Bough became known as one of the BBC's most accomplished presenters, equally able to cover sport, entertainment and politics. He was educated at Oswestry Boys' School and Merton College, Oxford. He undertook national service in the Royal Tank Regiment. He was encouraged to become a broadcaster by Gerald Sinstadt, Bough joined the BBC's regional news in Newcastle and within a couple of years had moved down to London, first making his name on national television as a BBC sports commentator.
He became a stalwart presenter on BBC television from the 1960s until the 1980s, hosting many of the corporation's most popular shows, including Grandstand (1958), Nationwide (1969) and Breakfast Time (1983).
In 1988 he was exposed by a UK tabloid newspaper as a cocaine user who enjoyed cross-dressing, sadomasochism and brothels. He expressed regrets about his lifestyle in subsequent interviews and his wife Nesta remained supportive, but these revelations caused considerable embarrassment and ended his long career at the BBC.
BornJanuary 15, 1933
DiedOctober 21, 2020
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Parable of the Icarus in a Pringle sweater: He was a broadcasting trailblazer and housewives' favourite. But it was the downfall of Frank Bough (and the wife who stood by him) that was such a tale of our times, writes RICHARD PENDLEBURY
This was Frank Bough’s time of year. His undisputed realm was Saturday afternoons in the autumn, with rain lashing the windowpanes outside and nothing much to do.
Imagine it is the late 1970s and there are no iPhones or social media to banish the tedium; no live football on Sky or BT Sports.
In fact, there are only three channels to be found on the family television set. One of them — ITV — is showing a wrestling bout between Giant Haystacks and Big Daddy, more scripted pantomime than sport.
Another — BBC2 — is, as usual, offering a dreary black and white costume drama.
But on BBC1, Frank Bough is presenting Grandstand, and you know the afternoon ahead will be like easing into a warm bath.
Fallen star: Frank Bough with his wife Nesta (pictured circa 1980) who he married in 1959, had three sons with and lived comfortably by the Thames near
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Frank Bough Autographs, Memorabilia & Collectibles
FRANK BOUGH
Born: January 15, 1933 in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, England, United Kingdom
Died: October 21, 2020 in London, England, United Kingdom
Biography | show moreshow less
Bough's broadcasting journey began in the 1960s, where he initially worked for the BBC as a radio reporter. He quickly transitioned to television and became a prominent figure on various programs. One of Bough's most notable achievements was his role as the anchor of the BBC's flagship morning program, "Breakfast Time," which launched in 1983. His engaging and affable demeanor made him a beloved and respected presence in British households, and the show became a significant success under his leadership. Bough's expertise extended beyond morning television, as he also excelled in sports presenting. He hosted several sports programs, including coverage of major events such as
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