Steve Knibbs: A Distinguished Career in British Journalism
In the world of British journalism, few names resonate in the South West of England as strongly as Steve Knibbs. With more than three decades of dedicated service at the BBC, Knibbs has established himself as a respected broadcast journalist, presenter, and correspondent. Known for his ability to cover stories across television, radio, and digital platforms, he has become a familiar face and voice to viewers in Gloucestershire and beyond.
This article explores the life, career, and achievements of Steve Knibbs, highlighting his journey through the media industry, his contributions to regional and national news, and his influence as a communicator in both professional and community spaces.
Early Life and Education
Steve Knibbs was born and raised in England, eventually making Gloucester his professional base. While detailed personal information such as his exact age and family life remains private, what is known is his commitment to journalism from a young age.
He pursued higher education at Sheffield Hallam University, where he studied Cultural Studies, Communication and Media Studies, graduating with a BA (Hons) degree in 1992. This academic background provided him with the knowledge and critical skills necessary for a career in broadcasting.
Beginning of a Career in Journalism
After completing his studies, Steve Knibbs embarked on his journalism career in the early 1990s. He joined the BBC in 1992 as a Broadcast Journalist. His initial years were spent honing his reporting skills, presenting, and producing content that reached local and regional audiences.
Between 1992 and 1997, he gained experience across various platforms, strengthening his abilities in both news presentation and field reporting. His versatility and dedication quickly marked him out as a journalist with potential to rise through the BBC ranks.
Progression within the BBC
Wiltshire Reporter
From 2000 to 2006, Knibbs worked as the Wiltshire Reporter for BBC Points West. During this period, he covered a wide range of stories across the county, engaging with communities, businesses, and local authorities. His approachable yet professional style made him well-respected among audiences in Wiltshire.
Gloucestershire Reporter
In May 2006, Steve Knibbs took on the role that he is most widely recognised for today: Gloucestershire Reporter for BBC West. For more than 19 years, he has been at the forefront of news reporting across Gloucestershire, covering everything from breaking news to community features. His work spans television, radio, and digital platforms, ensuring that stories from the county reach both regional and national audiences.
Network News Correspondent
More recently, Knibbs was appointed a News Correspondent for BBC News in London, from September 2024 to January 2025. This role saw him report on stories for the BBC’s national and international outlets, further highlighting his adaptability and credibility as a journalist. Covering major events in the UK capital for television, radio, and digital audiences, he brought regional insight to a global stage.
Skills and Expertise
Throughout his career, Steve Knibbs has developed an impressive portfolio of skills that make him stand out in modern journalism:
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Broadcast Journalism – Skilled at on-air reporting across both TV and radio.
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Video Editing – Experienced in Final Cut Pro X and other editing software.
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Digital Journalism – Adapted to the fast-changing digital landscape, producing stories optimised for online audiences.
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Compère and Host – Beyond the newsroom, Knibbs has acted as a compère and host at events and ceremonies, showcasing his versatility as a communicator.
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MoJo Training – Trained in mobile journalism, giving him the ability to shoot, edit, and file reports quickly in fast-moving news environments.
Recognition and Honours
Steve Knibbs’ work has not gone unnoticed. In November 2019, he was awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the University of Gloucestershire. This recognition highlighted his outstanding contribution to journalism and his role in representing Gloucestershire within the wider BBC network.
Digital Presence and Personal Interests
Knibbs maintains an active presence on social media, where he engages with audiences beyond traditional broadcasting. Known for his approachable personality, he often mixes professional updates with light-hearted commentary, reflecting his self-described traits as a “tech geek” and an “annoying optimist.”
He also shows a passion for community involvement, supporting local events and initiatives. Beyond journalism, he is musically inclined, being associated with the band Swimming With Alice, where he plays piano. This creative side adds another dimension to his public persona.
Contribution to Local and National Journalism
Gloucestershire Focus
For nearly two decades, Knibbs has been a vital link between the people of Gloucestershire and the wider BBC audience. His reporting has brought attention to local stories that might otherwise remain unheard, ensuring that regional voices are represented on both regional and national platforms.
National Impact
His temporary move to London as a network news correspondent expanded his reach, proving that his skills are not only valuable at the regional level but also essential to the BBC’s national and international operations.
Personal Life
While Steve Knibbs remains discreet about his private life, it is known that he is a father. However, he does not publicly share information about his age, marital status, or spouse, choosing instead to maintain a clear boundary between his personal and professional worlds.
This decision reflects a commitment to professionalism and privacy, something often admired in public-facing roles.
Legacy and Influence
With over 30 years of service at the BBC, Steve Knibbs has become one of the most recognisable journalists in the South West of England. His balanced approach to reporting, combined with his ability to adapt to new media formats, ensures he remains relevant in a constantly evolving industry.
For aspiring journalists, Knibbs serves as a role model in dedication, adaptability, and community connection. His career is a testament to the impact that regional journalists can have on both local and national levels.
Conclusion
Steve Knibbs embodies the qualities of a seasoned journalist: integrity, adaptability, and a strong connection to the community. From his early days as a broadcast journalist in the 1990s to his long-standing role as Gloucestershire Reporter for BBC West, his career highlights the importance of regional news in shaping national conversations.
Whether presenting on television, reporting on the radio, or engaging with audiences digitally, Knibbs continues to be a trusted source of news and a respected figure in British broadcasting. His story is not just that of a journalist but also of a professional deeply committed to giving a voice to the people and places that matter most.
