I was saddened to hear yesterday that Kerry Smith had died. Like many, I’m sure, I liked her.

As a broadcaster, Kerry was a true professional: warm, engaging, endlessly versatile and competent. As an actress she came across as wry and very funny at times, but, to me, always retained an edge of well-presented class. She seemed like a fun-loving and positive person.

Kerry interviewed some of my authors including Olly Newland whom she invited back again and again on her talkback show — always underestimating how many callers would ‘light up the switchboard’ seeking his advice … and, sensibly, often extending the time for ‘Olly the oracle’ to dispense his words of wisdom to those who got the chance to ask a question about climbing the property ladder. She had a knack for re-framing information to make it more easily digestible. Good work.

On air, Kerry was silky-smooth, faultlessly positive, and authentic. A real role-model.

I’m sad to see her go. My sympathy to her family and friends.

– P