Laurence Dollimore
A PLACE In The Sun star Jasmine Harman has made a touching tribute to her former colleague Jonnie Irwin, who lost his battle to cancer this week.
The pair worked together for years on the hit Channel 4 show, helping countless Brits make the move to Spain and elsewhere in Europe.
Jonnie, a father-of-three, died from cancer at aged 50 after receiving a shock terminal diagnosis back in 2020.
Jasmine, who recently moved to Estepona on the Costa del Sol, today posted a touching tribute to her friend.
She wrote: “Jonnie Irwin – I will always remember the first time I heard your name. When I was doing a screen test for a new show, they said ‘we definitely want Jonnie, but we need to find another presenter’.
“I wondered who this mysterious Jonnie was. We met in Cape Town, filming the pilot. You we’re so charismatic and energetic, so confident and fun. I understood immediately why they had to have you.
“Your cheeky-chappy persona and naughty sense of humour always broke the ice and made people laugh. Everyone warmed to you and you had the incredible ability to connect with people, making them feel like they’d known you for years.”
She continued: “To begin our TV careers together was a pleasure and a privilege I will be eternally grateful for. Almost twenty years ago, as two nervous new presenters (me perhaps more nervous than you!) little did we know about the adventure we were about to embark on, and the friends we would become.
“Professionally, you were well suited to life in front of the lens. But for years, you always talked about wanting to settle down and become a dad. Your wish was granted when you met Jess. Never were you happier than in your role as husband and Dad to the most awesome three boys – you are a legend.
“Life is simply not fair. We can’t reason with it; there are no answers to the question Why?
“We can, in your memory learn to cherish every hug, every conversation, every moment, for the priceless time we have. Enjoy every breath, every sunrise and sunset, never take anything for granted, because tomorrow is not promised.”
Jasmine added: “Jonnie, you’ve taught me so much in our time as work colleagues and as good friends. I have never admired you more than over the last few years as you’ve faced life with cancer with positivity, determination and bloody mindedness. I’ve never known anyone as strong as you. You have done yourself, your loved ones and all of us proud.
“The world is a little darker today without you, but I will always smile when I think of you. My partner in crime, my OG co-presenter – Jonnie, I will miss you. Sending so much love to Jonnie’s family & loved ones.”
