A WELL-respected journalist who was responsible for establishing Yorkshire’s regional news programme, Look North, has died aged 81.

Bill Greaves was editor of Look North when the programme began broadcasting under in 1968, based in an old church hall in Blackman Lane in Leeds, until it became a nationally-respected source of news and current affairs.

Colleagues described Mr Greaves, who died following a heart attack, as a talented all-rounder with a passion for news, sport, drama and more – with his eye for a story being central to Look North’s success, leading to countless stories from Yorkshire being picked up and carried nationally by the BBC during his tenure.

Harry Gration, who has presented Look North since 1985, was recruited by Greaves and he went on to become one of the region’s most recognised and respected broadcasters.

Mr Gration said: "Bill Greaves was the person responsible for establishing the foundations for the success that BBC Look North enjoys today.

“He was well known for his innovation, not just through news output, but also the regional documentaries that have become an important part of the BBC's output in the region."

Tim Smith, acting head of regional and local programmes for BBC Yorkshire, said: “Bill Greaves was a broadcasting pioneer, the very first edition of Look North in 1968 was presented from a boat as York flooded.

"He was an inspirational leader to many and will be much missed.”