MBC ARCHIVE · 1926 TO 2026
Remembering a much-loved broadcaster, former MBC member and daughter of Weston-super-Mare.
Explore the complete timeline9 November 1961 to 26 April 1999
Jill was born at Ashcombe House in Weston-super-Mare to Jack and Win Dando. At age three she underwent surgery for a heart condition. She attended Worle Infants, Worle Community School and Broadoak Sixth Form.
Jill attended Milton Baptist Church with her mother, took part in the Youth Club, was baptised by Rev Phillip Gathercole and became a church member. She also enjoyed amateur dramatics and volunteered with Sunshine Radio at the local hospital.
Jill worked for the Weston Mercury for five years, following a family connection with the paper. She then joined the BBC in the West and Plymouth before moving to London in 1988. Her programmes included Breakfast Time, BBC News, Holiday, Crimewatch and Songs of Praise.
1999
Jill became engaged to Alan Farthing on 31 January 1999. She was killed outside her London home on 26 April, aged 37. The case remains unsolved.
21 May 1999
Her funeral was held at Clarence Park Baptist Church and led by MBC pastor D. Marc Owen because MBC's rebuilt church was not yet complete. Jill was buried with her mother at Ebdon Road Cemetery.
Jill is remembered with affection for her warmth, professionalism and connection with the community in which she grew up. MBC includes her story as part of its public history with care and dignity.