Sue Baker was well-known to Top Gear watchers. She was a founding member of Top Gear, entering in 1980 and working as a broadcaster, writer, presenter, and editor until 1991, participating in over 100 episodes. Baker died on November 14, 2016, at the age of 67, following a lengthy struggle with Motor Neuron Disease (MND). According to a spokeswoman, Sue died at home, surrounded by family and friends.
Sue’s family published a statement upon her passing, applauding her achievements as a creative writer and producer who was respected by everybody. According to the statement:
“She was a creative and prolific writer, a dynamic presenter, and a fervent animal lover who was liked and appreciated by everyone who knew her.”
TG pays tribute to Sue Baker, who presented more than 100 episodes of original Top Gear → https://t.co/KbGfo2gij0 pic.twitter.com/A2Rv0VLG2b
— Top Gear (@BBC_TopGear) November 15, 2022
Sue Baker died as a result of Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
Motor Neuron Disease (MND) is an uncommon disease that affects many sections of the nervous system, including the brain, over time. Although there is no known cure for MND, therapies are available to assist decrease the burden of its symptoms on everyday living. The disease’s symptoms may come gradually and be mild at first. Ankle and leg weakness, slurred speech, a weakening grip, muscular spasms, and other symptoms are common.
A new study undertaken by experts at the University of Aberdeen found that indicators of MND may be identified in people approximately 14 years before symptoms manifest. A particular kind of protein that causes MND may be identified in the stomach years before it affects the brain and body, according to the research. In addition, doctors were able to create a gene treatment that might correct patients’ muscular weakness. Sue Baker died of Motor Neuron Disease after a long battle, however, it is unknown when she was originally diagnosed. Her son and daughter Ian and Hannah, two grandchildren George and Tom, and her daughter-in-law Lucy survive her.
Sue Baker was a prominent automobile journalist.
Sue Baker was a trailblazer in advancing women’s racing. She joined Top Gear in its earlier iteration on the BBC and participated in around 22 seasons, mostly assessing new automobiles and delivering road safety and consumer advice.
After leaving the program in 1991, Baker maintained her career as a motorsport journalist, developing and operating the Motor Racing News Service at the Kent motor racing facility Brands Hatch. She also worked as The Observer’s automotive editor for over 13 years until resigning in 1995, as well as freelance writing for Saga Magazine.