The BBC and its wider community are mourning the loss of Jane McLean, a former producer and production assistant for the iconic daytime magazine programme Pebble Mill at One. News of her passing was shared by friends, prompting an outpouring of grief and fond memories from those who worked alongside her.
A Career at the Heart of BBC Daytime
Jane McLean built her career during the heyday of BBC's Pebble Mill studios in Birmingham. She served as a producer and production assistant for Pebble Mill at One, the live daily show broadcast at 1pm from 1972 until 1986. The programme was later revived for a run from 1991 to 1996.
Her contributions to BBC television extended well beyond the famous magazine show. McLean worked as a production assistant on a variety of other programmes, including The Tom O'Connor Roadshow, the comedian's live weekday series, and Peggy Lee Entertains in 1981.
Demonstrating her commitment to charitable causes, she also volunteered for BBC Children in Need, where she helped answer phones to record vital donations from the public.
An Outpouring of Love from Friends and Colleagues
The announcement of her death was made on a dedicated Pebble Mill Facebook group, described as "another sad announcement." The post simply stated, "The lovely Jane McLean has died. Rest in peace Jane. Will adore you always."
This news prompted a flood of emotional tributes from her former peers. One colleague expressed being "heartbroken," recalling Jane as "amazing to work with, fun to socialise with and a truly fabulous friend." They reminisced about shared shows and many happy hours "lunching, drinking and putting the world to rights."
Another friend highlighted her professional mentorship, writing, "I have many fond memories of our days working together on Pebble Mill, she helped train me in the gallery. Many fun times in the bar too. Lovely lady."
A third tribute called her a "fabulous friend, a one off, a Pebble Mill legend," revealing that watching McLean work was an inspiration. "I was blown away and just wanted to be her," they added.
Remembering a Consummate Professional
Further comments painted a picture of a vibrant, dedicated professional who loved her work and colleagues. One person noted that despite knowing she had been suffering and was virtually housebound, they would remember her as "always bubbly, in her prime, the consummate professional."
"She loved life at Pebble Mill and all her friends and colleagues more than anyone I know. Her dry wit remained intact," the tribute continued, concluding, "RIP lovely lady, the world is a little darker today."
Jane McLean's passing follows the deaths of several other Pebble Mill figures this year, including writer and show executive Jock Gallagher in June and cameraman John Williams, as previously confirmed on the same Facebook page. Her legacy remains firmly woven into the fabric of British television history.
