Legacy includes films about fuel poverty, the housing crisis and Ukrainian refugees
Tributes have been paid to BBC News cameraman and shoot edit Raeph Ballantyne who has passed away following some time in hospital.
Ballantyne began his BBC career 15 years ago as a location engineer in the newsgathering operations team. He also worked in the camera team for several years before becoming a shoot edit with the society team where he focused on stories about crime, justice, communities, social affairs, religion, and poverty.
His credits include speech impediment film I Can’t Say My Name: Stammering in the Spotlight, films about fuel poverty in the Hebrides, the housing crisis in Cornwall, and Ukrainian refugees in Calais, and policing called Hartlepool: the town where ‘police don’t come out’.
“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.”
“Those of us who knew him will remember his flair and creativity,” added Alan Dickson, chief finance and operations officer at BBC News and Current Affairs. “Our thoughts are with Raeph’s wife Torie, his young family and his friends at this sad time.”
BBC News journalist Fraser Wilson said: “I’ve been struggling to find the words on learning that one of the kindest, wittiest, most creative and talented shoot-edits, Raeph Ballantyne, has passed away. We need souls like Raeph so much.”
“The BBC News camera team are reeling today,” added BBC video journalist Tony Smith. “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.”
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