Veteran broadcaster Charles Abela Mizzi passed away at the age of 81.

Mr Abela Mizzi, born in Valletta, joined the national broadcasting station in 1962 as an announcer and went on to become deputy head of Xandir Malta. He was head of programmes in 1980 and, when he retired, continued to work at the station on a part time basis. Mr Abela Mizzi was described by colleagues and friends as a dedicated and professional broadcaster who would often give support and advice to those at the start of their broadcasting career.

While many will remember him for his orotund voice, Albert Marshall, deputy chairman of the Public Broadcasting Services, said the broadcaster’s most astounding quality was his deep understanding of how to communicate effectively via radio and television. “Like Charles Arrigo, Mr Abela Mizzi has earned his right to occupy a seat in the front row in the Hall of Fame of local broadcasting. Mr Abela Mizzi is not just a voice, he is a living legend of Maltese broadcasting,” Mr Marshall said.

He had an eye for detail,never compromising where quality was concerned

Victor Formosa, a veteran broadcaster himself, said he owed his broadcasting career to Mr Abela Mizzi. In 1967, he had encouraged Mr Formosa, who was not yet sure whether to take up a career in broadcasting, to apply for a post with the Broadcasting Authority.

“When I got the post he chided me for having doubts about the move. Charles was always helpful and readily forthcoming with words of advice and encouragement. The last time I met him was earlier this year at the Barrakka Gardens where he was having coffee while working on some translation work. He was a friend and a gentleman,” Mr Formosa said.

A former ‘student’ of Mr Abela Mizzi, Charles Xuereb, who had the opportunity to produce television programmes with him, said he always admired how Mr Abela Mizzi approached any challenge in a professional way. “He had an eye for detail, never compromising where quality was concerned. Privately he was a gentleman, nourishing friendships and respect for all,” Dr Xuereb said.

Childhood friend Charles Coleiro said that among the many memories he had of Mr Abela Mizzi was the passion for the Maltese language. “He would not tolerate the wrong use of Maltese. That’s something I’ll never forget about him,” said Mr Coleiro.

The Nationalist Party said Mr Abela Mizzi would be remembered for his unique voice as well as his efforts to improve national broadcasting standards.

The Labour Party said Mr Abela Mizzi was admired by the old and the young alike, especially by those who aspired to work in broadcasting.