The Nation's Favourite Voice

Well this is goodbye Terry old chap,

and it's clear you deserve recognition, pat on the back, a clap,

from your faithful viewers, fans and loyal TOGs,

and the generation you inspired, listened to you since they were wee sprogs.

Decades of entertaining and presenting on the BBC,

Janet and John innuendo, Eurovision, only part of your legendary legacy,

and it's these positive tributes to your kind nature, twinkle in your eye,

that we fondly remember with a nostalgic sigh. 

For you had such a pleasant gift,

of greeting the nation each morning, giving their day a boost, a lift.

For other people you would go the extra mile,

to entice a giggle and tease a smile.

Your innate warmth and generosity in Children in Need,

that for a night put an end to our greed,

silent radio fireworks reflecting your fun and charm,

your refusal to rehearse, effortless calm.

Your ability to go with the flow,

your selflessness, your belly laugh, your glow,

your sparkle and modesty,

your adventure and honesty. 

Such was your laid back sharp tongue, intelligence that your impact,

will only in treasured memories forever be intact.

But it's the loss of the love you communicated through your vocal magic,

that makes your passing so tragic.

Your infectious cheeky cheer and wit,

that had the power to force drivers to pull over, laugh till their sides split.

But you wouldn't want us to mope and mourn,

our faces stained with tears, at life's unfair curse be forlorn.

You'd want us to love, thrive, give and rejoice,

for you were so much more than the nation's favourite voice,

But just as this poem is waffling a ton,

you wouldn't want fuss as you know the show must go on.