BBC Breakfast host Naga Munchetty has shared an emotional tribute to a late colleague on the programme following his death.
The 47-year-old presenter said the loss of camera operator Raeph Ballantyne had left a ‘massive gap’ at BBC News.
Naga sent her condolences to the BBC cameraman's loved ones in the heartfelt post, shared with her 277,000 followers.
She wrote: “A wonderful, kind and sweet man. Brilliant at his job, generous to those he worked with - I was lucky enough to film with him on a few occasions.
“He will leave a massive gap of talent and kindness. He will be sorely missed. Sending love and condolences to Raeph's loved ones.”
Tributes from fellow colleagues at the BBC poured in for Ballantyne, as fellow member of the BBC’s camera team Tony Smith said he was ‘gone far too soon’.
He shared a picture of Ballantyne and told his followers they were ‘reeling’ over his death.
He wrote: “We have lost a dear friend. Raeph Ballantyne was one of the kindest, gentlest, most talented colleagues you could hope to work alongside. Gone far too soon.”
“Those who knew Raeph in BBC News and beyond are devastated,” said the BBC’s head of UK operations, Morwen Williams.
“Raeph was one of the most talented, creative and considerate shoot-editors of his generation.
“He was also a huge support and friend to many starting out in their careers. His skills and talent will be hugely missed by us all – but that care and friendship even more so. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.”
Producer Claire Ellison, who worked closely with Ballantyne, said: “Raeph was a talented and creative person who made our work shine, and we will miss him deeply.
“He always came up with solutions and kept on thinking when under huge pressure.
“He was great to be with, funny with plenty of stories, empathetic with some of the vulnerable people we interview and a consummate professional.
“He had seen lots of life and knew how to communicate well whatever the circumstance.”
Ballantyne began his BBC career 15 years ago as a location engineer in the news gathering operations team.
Through his work, he came into contact with big names including Barack Obama and Greta Thunberg.
It's believed that Ballantyne was in hospital for some time before his death, however, the cause isn't known.
