CELEBRITY parties that made one Worcester woman feel like she was at “Madame Tussauds but with everyone moving” are among her memories of Sir David Frost.
In 2003, Miranda Ballard had just graduated when she landed the job as PA to the man famous for his hard-hitting interview with American president Richard Nixon, Sunday morning show Breakfast with Frost, and gameshow Through the Keyhole.
Now, after his death at the weekend aged 74, she has spoken of her sadness at the passing of the “lovely” man she knew so well.
Five years in the role saw her mixing with London’s celebrity elite as she organised the broadcaster’s annual drinks party, as well as checking his 900-strong Christmas card list.
Mrs Ballard, 31, returned to Martley in 2008 to set-up food business Muddy Boots with her husband Roland, but kept in touch with her former employer.
“He was lovely about me leaving,” she said. “I remember seeing his heart sink when I told him. “But he took me by the hand and asked me to tell him about the business.
“I had just moved to London after graduating when I got the job with him.
“It was an amazing time. His annual drinks parties were memorable.”
Guests included the likes of Sir Elton John, Joanna Lumley, Sir John Major and Billy Connelly.
“It was like standing in Madame Tussauds but with everyone moving,” said Mrs Ballard.
“My favourite person there though was David.”
She said she was told about his death by her husband who heard the news while at the gym.
Later she attended a baptism and, while there, “said some prayers for him and his family”.
Ironically, Sir David’s death came on the same weekend as ITV relaunched Through The Keyhole, which explores the homes of the rich and famous.
“It was incredible timing, sadly,” added Mrs Ballard.
“I know he was instrumental in the relaunch and gave the ok for the show as he and Loyd Grossman, who also appeared in the original show, owned the rights.”
She says she won’t attend Sir David’s funeral but would be more than happy to help the family with any logistics. “He will be in my prayers,” she said.
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