Jack N Butcher, dec’d
I enjoyed the privilege and pleasure of working with Jack for the best part of 40 years.
I first met him in 1966 when I joined Birmingham Hospitals Broadcasting Network where he was already a long-serving member of the organisation which had started in 1952. I think I am correct in remembering that I was secretary of the Network at the time when Jack was the chairman.
The Network had a close connection, through carrying a live broadcast, with the Midlands’ Festival of Remembrance held annually in Birmingham Town Hall. Jack was the narrator in the hall and asked me if I would act as commentator for the broadcast. In 1976, Jack took over production of the Festival with me succeeding him as narrator. We worked together on the Festival until Jack retired as producer sometime in, I think, the early 2000s.
As broadcaster and producer, Jack was a consummate master, imaginative and attentive to detail but never domineering.
Naturally, our families, both with young children, became good friends. Janet was Jack’s quiet supporter and the children, John and Kate were delightful.
Jack was one of the best people I have ever met; he will be very much missed.
Philip Cotterill
17/12/2025
