I worked alongside James at BBC H+W from day one. I soon realised he was a razor sharp journalist with a fantastic news reading voice, but what I remember most is the touching kindness he showed me when my life was going through a tough patch. It was all the more moving because I can't even claim to have been an especially close friend or colleague, yet when he heard of my problems he reached out to me. It happened at Christmas time and when he discovered I would be on my own on Boxing Day he invited me for lunch followed by an afternoon at Aggborough watching his beloved Kidderminster Harriers. Years later when I was again at a low point James knocked on the door of my editing suite and said "Sorry to hear your news. Do you fancy a drink down the pub one evening". What a truly lovely guy.

I remember our first date - we went to the cinema to see Lady Sings the Blue with Diana Ross as Billie Holiday, a wonderful film. Afterwards I remember us running for my bus, hand in hand, with only time for a peck on the cheek as I jumped on the bus just in time! That was the beginning of the next 43 happy years together. I have a lot to be thankful for. Love you James ❤️ Sandra x

James & I worked together at BBC H&W when he was News Editor, they were great times. I remember his VW Golf, the smoke filled little News Editor's office in the corner of the newsroom, and his fabulous ability to make a Hong-Kong style Shrimp and Cucumber Soy Salad. It was delicous! Have a ball, James.

James and I worked together for several years as members of the team responsible for Local and Regional Services in the West Midlands. He was a joy to work with. He was passionate about the interests of his station and its staff, but he was also able to see the 'big picture'. He was highly respected by his fellow editors, and we were one of the happiest teams I have worked in, in many years at the BBC. On my visits to BBC Hereford and Worcester it was evident that the staff had the highest regard for James as their leader, and respected his judgement. He will be much missed by many.

I can't believe we'll be saying farewell to James tomorrow. More than 30 years as a colleague, boss and, most importantly, friend. In all capacities he was warm, kind and supportive, always looking for the best in everyone. His sense of humour was second to none. James thoroughly enjoyed taking my money {only a small amount} when I had bet yet again on one of our players doing well at Wimbledon or on Spurs winning a trophy. So sad that there will be no more beer & curry nights with James and Sandra to lure me back to Worcester. Diana

James was my first boss at BBC H&W, taking me on as Early Breakfast and travel presenter back in 2006 - and then giving me the opportunity to co-host Breakfast. 15 years on, I'm still presenting at the station. I had no idea that he had also worked at BRMB - there are a few faces from Aston Road North that have ended up at H&W over the years! I'll always be grateful to him for the chance he gave me. Rest easy, James. Toni

My childhood memories of James revolve around music (Ziggy Stardust through the bedroom wall); sport (tense Subbuteo tournaments with Matthew, cricket knockabouts, football on the tele on a Saturday afternoon). Later it was the super cool hippy brother with his gorgeous girlfriend in Sandra's little Fiat. Much later it was the kind, calm, loyal, loving and supportive big brother helping me through the loss of Mum. The generous host of many a wonderful family Christmas in Little Witley. Then finally the brave, uncomplaining man struck down way too young. The thread that runs through all.of it was James' keen wit and brilliant sense of humour - razor-sharp and never far away - even in his darkest days at the end. I was blessed to have him and i am heartbroken to lose him. Samantha xxx

James and I spent several years together in the 80s as colleagues in the newsroom at the former BRMB Radio in Birmingham. He was a fine reporter and a kind, generous colleague. Later it was my privilege to work for him when I did freelance news reading shifts at BBC Hereford and Worcester. We shared a passion for cricket and when I heard of James' death from the horrors of pancreatic cancer I thought of the batsman who is dismissed by an unplayable delivery. But he returns to the pavilion to the grateful applause of the crowd after a fine innings. James Coghill's life was truly a life well-lived.

James and I shared many memories over the years as fellow News Editors and Managing Editors in the West Midlands. He was a great journalist and editor during the heyday of local radio. He is very sadly missed. David Robey

James and I shared many memories as fellow News Editors and Managing Editors in the West Midlands. James was a great journalist and editor during the heyday of local radio. A very sad loss. David Robey

Heart felt thanks for all the support you gave me during my time at H & W, especially during the illness of my husband and subsequent loss. I will never forget you kindness. Tee

A terrific guy - a very supportive colleague - much missed .

Thank you for setting up this memorial to James. We hope that you find it a positive experience developing the site and that it becomes a place of comfort and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to.

I am I and you are you, whatever we were to each other that we still are. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? Life means all that it ever meant, it is the same as it ever was.