Television production in Yorkshire has lost one of its true heroes. Roger Keech was an accomplished producer and director who crafted some of the most beautiful images of the county ever televised.
Roger began his career at the BBC in Leeds as a studio assistant on Look North and other regional shows. He soon moved on from floor management and graphics duties to directing, making stylish, creative films for the network with writers including Alan Ayckbourn and Peter Tinniswood.
He formed his own production company, making films about varied subjects from brass bands to the Battle of Towton during the Wars of the Roses. Ultimately, he was responsible for more than 200 productions, including Flying Scotsman from the Footplate, for which he was awarded an RTS Yorkshire Programme Award for Professional Excellence a few days before his death.
Roger was credited with helping to bring the Tour de France to Yorkshire. It was his vision of the television coverage showcasing the county in all its glory that helped convince the tour organisers to award Le Grand Depart to Yorkshire in 2014.
He was an active RTS Yorkshire member and for the past few years had been involved in producing the Centre’s Programme Awards, including personally designing all the on-screen graphics. It was Roger’s meticulous attention to detail and impeccable taste that gave the awards in Yorkshire their unique style and elegance.
His work with Leeds University also helped to secure future skills and talent in the region.
A modest perfectionist, Roger’s perfectly composed images always captured beauty and natural spectacle. He will be deeply missed by his friends and colleagues in Yorkshire.
