For four decades, Anne Davies has been a familiar, trusted face in homes across the East Midlands—delivering the news with poise, compassion, and a quiet authority that has made her a staple of regional broadcasting.
But beyond the autocue and the evening headlines, Anne is also a champion for the next generation, an advocate for authenticity, and the founder of a fashion initiative that’s changing lives.
Picture credit: BBC
“I’ve been delivering the news for the people of the East Midlands for the past 40 years,” Anne says with a mix of pride and disbelief. “At first, I thought, ‘Should I even say something about it?’ But actually, it is something to be proud of. “There aren’t many women in broadcasting who’ve done this for as long as I have—and I think it matters.”
Indeed it does. In an industry that has not always been known for its longevity or inclusivity—especially for women—Anne’s career stands as both a rare achievement and an inspiration.
“Hopefully it encourages other women who might feel they’ve run out of road,” she says.
“Just because you’re in your sixties doesn’t mean you don’t have anything left to offer. You’re still worthy. You can still look good, start something new, and have impact.“
That idea of self-worth and presentation lies at the heart of her work—both on and off screen. Known for her signature style and grace, Anne doesn’t just preach about personal image—she teaches it. These days, she devotes much of her time to coaching up-and-coming presenters, as well as helping professionals across business and industry master the art of confident communication.
Picture credit: Anne Davis
“I genuinely enjoy sharing what I’ve learned,” she explains. “People are terrified of presenting. I think it’s something like 40 percent of people would rather die than speak in public!
But how we present ourselves affects everything—whether it’s getting the job, the promotion, even the relationship.”
Her approach is grounded in decades of experience and a philosophy that blends style with substance. “It’s about being appropriate but individual. There’s nothing worse than seeing someone squeezed into something they don’t feel right in. What you wear changes people’s opinions of you. People make 11 decisions about you in the first seven seconds—and you’ve probably only said ‘hello’. Presentation really matters. And it’s not superficial. It’s about confidence, self-esteem, and connection,” she explains.
Anne’s deep understanding of image and message converged in 2016 when she launched ‘Fashanne’—a fashion awards platform for young designers from universities across the Midlands. With the first event held at Belvoir Castle, it is more than a catwalk show; it’s a bridge between the region’s emerging creative talent and the industries that need them.
“Fashanne is something I really hope the East Midlands takes to its heart,” she says. “It connects the next generation with business, and it showcases just how much talent we have in this region. It’s vibrant, full of potential, and it gives students a platform while giving industry access to innovation.”
Though the pandemic paused the event for a time, Anne remains as passionate as ever about its mission—and its message. “It’s about celebrating the future. There’s so much talent here, and Fashanne is a beautiful way to support it.”
As for broadcasting, Anne’s love for it hasn’t faded one bit. “It’s still a joy. We’re a cross-platform operation now— online, radio, television. I know people say the news can be depressing, but if you watch our programme, you’ll get the information you need and the good things happening in the East Midlands. There’s plenty of them. And there’s still a need for honest, authentic news and connection. That’s never going away.”
After 40 years in front of the camera, Anne has no plans to step off-screen— or stop sharing what she’s learned. “It’s been long, it’s been joyful on the whole—and it’s been a great honour to be invited into people’s homes each evening. You become part of their lives. That’s something very special.”
And as she puts it: “It sure ain’t over yet.”
