BARNSLEY-BORN journalist Len Tingle died on Tuesday after a year-long battle with stomach cancer.

The 63-year-old, who lived in Huddersfield but grew up on Acre Road, Cudworth, became a familiar face to many as BBC Look North’s political editor.

His television career began at Central TV in 1981, before joining the BBC in 1989 as a business presenter in London.

He moved to Leeds as business and industry correspondent before taking up the role of political editor in 2001.

Helen Thomas, head of BBC Yorkshire, said: “As a colleague he was kind, honest and always ready to help others.

“As a political journalist he was passionate in the pursuit of the real story. For many he made sense of the changing political landscape in Yorkshire and it’s a tribute to him that so many politicians of today and yesterday saw him as journalist they could trust in good times and in bad.”

Coun Charlie Wraith, who lived near Len on Acre Road, said: “It’s very sad news that he has passed away. Len was a total professional, unbiased but not afraid to ask those awkward questions.

“The last time I was with him was at the opening of the Birkwood Primary School’s new library bus. We had a good chat and laugh together.

“He told me then he had cancer saying he knew I had had bowel cancer as well. I wished him well saying I hoped the treatment was a success. He was a lovely, lovely man.”

Harry Gration, presenter of BBC Look North, described Len as a fearless reporter on political issues.

“He was totally unbiased, he was also an incredible team player and often rang me with tips about how to challenge the big political hitters when they came into Look North.

“He will be greatly missed by his colleagues who all loved and respected him.”