BBC star explains why weather presenters don't use autocue – unlike newsreaders

BBC North West presenter Molly Brewer shared a behind-the-scenes video with her followers, showing how she's helped by her best friend and director with timings

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A BBC weather presenter revealed that unlike newsreaders, weather forecasters don't use autocue machines.

Sharing behind-the-scenes insights on her Instagram account, Molly Brewer explained she relies on memory and assistance from her friend to deliver her forecasts.

"I've had lots of people message me, surprised that weather presenters don't read from an autocue so I thought I'd explain why," she said in a video. Introducing her "best mate and director supreme," Katie, Molly shared how her pal cues her in through an earpiece.

The BBC North West star then showed a clip of Katie in action, before the camera switched to herself at the start of one of her bulletins. "I'll do the forecast unscripted using my graphics as a prompt," she clarified.

She further explained this is due to the weather segment being at the end of the programme, which can be cut or extended last minute depending on the show's timing. Molly also admitted she's still getting used to having someone talk in her ear while she's presenting.

"Katie will count me out like this," Molly demonstrated over footage of her friend counting down from five while she was on air. If everything goes smoothly, they both stop talking at the exact moment the programme ends.

Molly disclosed her ongoing learning process with a candid note: "It's a tricky thing to get used to and I'm still learning," but also acknowledged the support she gets on set, adding: "But I feel very lucky to have the comfort of having my best mate as one of the directors."

Her fans were quick to show appreciation for her behind-the-scenes insights, as comments poured in praising her multi-tasking skills and presenting prowess, with remarks including: "Interesting... I think I'd struggle so much with talkback though! No doubt you can rub your tummy and tap your head at the same time. Me? nope!"

Another commented: "So very interesting to see behind the scenes. Presenting at the same time as having someone talking in your ear must be tricky especially at first. Thanks for uploading this and well done again."

A third Instagram user echoed the sentiment: "Wonderful to see it from your point of view. Gives an even greater understanding of your skill involved in multi- tasking and remaining calm and collected. You're a naturally brilliant presenter."

While a fourth declared: "Brilliant insight to behind the scenes. I've always been interested in things like this but have never seen anything like this before. Thanks Molly."