Thank you Dame Esther Rantzen for all you did for the country, and personally for all you did to open the doors for someone like me.
Esther was an inspiration. Firstly as a a consumer journalist. She pioneered mass reach programming with a campaigning bent, something I've tried to emulate, albeit with a shadow of her TV reach.
Then by acting, rather than just commenting, setting up her own superb nationally impacting charities.
I was lucky enough to meet her a few times in green rooms. Always sharp, on it, independent of thought even if it wasn't in line with everyone else. We shared a a few laughs too.
She may be gone, but her impact and memory will long continue to shine. Thank you Esther. Condolences to all her family.