Tommy Walsh dies aged 69: Alan Titchmarsh leads tributes to Ground Force star
Ground Force and Homes Under the Hammer star Tommy Walsh has died aged 69 after a long illness, his agent has confirmed. Alan Titchmarsh called him a complete one-off.
Tommy Walsh, the much-loved builder and television presenter who became a household name on BBC's Ground Force, has died aged 69 following a long illness. His death was confirmed on Monday 9 November by his agent, Debbie Schiesser, who said he had passed away peacefully surrounded by his family.
"Tommy died peacefully after a long illness surrounded by his family," she confirmed, asking that the family's privacy be respected at this difficult time. The news has prompted tributes to a presenter whose warmth, humour and practical expertise made him one of British television's most familiar faces.
Alan Titchmarsh pays tribute to his Ground Force friend
Alan Titchmarsh, who presented Ground Force alongside Tommy and Charlie Dimmock, remembered his former colleague with affection. Describing their years working together as "among the happiest of my life", he recalled their playful disagreements over garden designs and the laughter they shared during filming.
"He was a complete one-off," Alan said, remembering how the pair would argue over the amount of decking needed for their makeovers while trying to complete ambitious projects against the clock. Their friendship and natural chemistry became a defining feature of the programme, which attracted audiences of around 12 million viewers at its peak.
From East London builder to television favourite
Born in Hackney, Tommy worked as a professional builder and ran his own property business before joining Ground Force in 1997. Alongside Alan and Charlie, he became known for tackling the demanding construction work involved in transforming ordinary gardens into beautiful outdoor spaces.
After the programme ended in 2005, Tommy continued appearing on British television, including Homes Under the Hammer and Clean It, Fix It. His straightforward approach and practical advice made him popular with viewers who appreciated his ability to explain home improvements without unnecessary complications.
Tommy had previously spoken publicly about his cancer treatment, including throat cancer diagnosed in 2022 and further treatment involving his lung. His agent did not specify the illness responsible for his death, and his family's request for privacy has been made clear.
Tributes have also come from his former football club, Old Parmiterians, where he played as a goalkeeper, while colleagues on The One Show remembered the help and inspiration he had given viewers over the years. He leaves behind his wife Marie and their three children, Charlotte, Natalie and Jonjo.
For millions who grew up watching Ground Force, Tommy will be remembered as the builder who could transform a garden while sharing a laugh with his colleagues. His contribution to British television extended well beyond the programme, inspiring viewers to tackle their own home improvement projects.
