Radio presenter Johnnie Walker has died at the age of 79, two months after calling time on his 58-year career because of ill health.
DJ Bob Harris, who took over BBC Radio 2’s Sounds of the 70s show after Walker’s retirement, announced his former colleague’s death live on the station on Tuesday.
Walker had pulmonary fibrosis, which is scarring of the lungs, a condition which makes breathing difficult.
He stepped down from presenting Sounds of the 70s and The Rock Show, also on Radio 2, at the end of October.
Helen Thomas, head of BBC Radio 2, said: “Everyone at Radio 2 is heartbroken about the passing of Johnnie, a much loved broadcasting legend.
“He made Sounds of the 70s and The Rock Show appointments to listen to, sharing his personal memories and tales each week.
“He loved radio and inspired a generation of presenters, passionately promoting the artists and music he cared about so deeply.
“Johnnie’s wry sense of humour and his warm, open style of presenting ensured he was adored by his audience. The airwaves simply won’t be the same again. He will be very much missed by Radio 2 presenters, staff and listeners alike, and our thoughts are with his wife Tiggy and his children.”
