Veteran radio star Johnnie Walker has died at the age of 79 just two months after retiring from his flagship BBC show Sounds Of The 70s.
Walker announced he was stepping down after 58 years having been previously diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
The condition makes breathing particularly difficult after leaving the lungs with scars.
Confirming his passing, BBC Radio 2 boss Helen Thomas 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.”
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