Service honours newsman lost in Iraq

Some of the most recognised faces in journalism joined the family of ITV reporter Terry Lloyd today to pay tribute to the news stalwart on the first anniversary of his death.

The 51-year-old broadcast veteran was killed on the road to Basra just days into the war in Iraq.

And today friends and colleagues from across the industry joined his widow and children to remember ITN’s longest-serving reporter.

More than 300 people packed St Bride’s Church in the heart of the historic home of British journalism, Fleet Street, London.

The special service also remembered French cameraman Fred Nerac and Lebanese translator Hussein Osman who were with Terry when they were caught in crossfire between Iraqi and US forces on March 22.

The pair are still officially missing.

Editor of ITV News David Mannion told the congregation, which included renowned names such as Trevor McDonald and Jon Snow, that Terry was a man of “courage and optimism”.

Watched by Terry’s widow Lynn and their children Chelsey, 21, and Oliver, 12, Mr Mannion said: “He was a very, very good journalist.

“He set about life in journalism’s premier league with workmanlike authority. He was reliability, versatility, a news editor’s dream.”

Mr Mannion, who knew Terry for 30 years, described him as a “high maintenance friend but a man that was always there when you needed him”.

He added: “Courage and optimism, what an excellent summary of the man.”

He said the motto of news desks was “send Lloydy, he won’t let you down”.

Figures from ITN, Sky, BBC and the media in general were among the family and friends for today’s service.

Mr Nerac’s widow Fabienne was holding her own tribute with loved ones in Paris.

Readings at the London service were given by ITV cameraman and close friend Mike Inglis, ITV correspondent Paul Davis and Sky’s Steve Clark, another close friend of the family.

Leading the service, Canon David Meara said Terry had been a “tenacious and courageous war correspondent”.

The popular hymn Jerusalem was among those sung by the choir, who also performed versions of modern hits Fields Of Gold by Sting, and Queen’s Who Wants To Live Forever.

Earlier today, Mrs Lloyd said in a statement: “Our family would like to thank all those who have paid tribute to Terry during the course of the past 12 months, during which time we have also been sustained by the love and support of close friends and family.

“We will always be extremely proud of Terry’s achievements.”