Tributes paid to BBC Radio Wales presenter Chris Needs

Legendary BBC Radio Wales late show presenter Chris Needs has died aged 68, following a short period of ill health.

In a statement, the station announced: “It is with enormous sadness and regret that we confirm the death of Chris Needs MBE following a short period of ill health. Through his Friendly Garden, Chris brought pleasure and comfort to thousands of listeners, from all over the world, who treated him like a true friend. The thoughts of everyone at BBC Radio Wales are with Chris’s husband Gabe, his family and his many friends at this time.”

Chris presented his show as usual on Friday night, and was on the schedule to appear this evening. Instead a tribute programme will be aired by BBC Radio Wales, presented by Mal Pope.

Chris had been with BBC Radio Wales since 1996 – initially co-hosting in daytime – but had been the station’s late show presenter for the last 18 years. Previously he was a presenter with commercial station Touch AM. He was awarded the MBE in 2005.

BBC Radio Wales editor Colin Paterson said: “Chris was an amazing character – a one off and an all-round entertainer. A giant of Welsh radio, he spent years with the commercial sector before moving to the BBC, where he broadcast in both Welsh and English, on television and radio. His contribution to Radio Wales can’t be underestimated, not least in recent months when he has provided comfort and companionship to our listeners.”

Listeners to his late show became members of The Chris Needs Friendly Garden Association, with the show simply known as ‘The Garden’ to regulars.

Colin Paterson added: “For almost 20 years, the Friendly Garden has brought people together from across Wales and the world, from every walk of life. The ability to bring people together was one of his many strengths and I know the Garden team, along with all of us at Radio Wales will miss him. But our thoughts today are with Chris’s husband Gabe, his family and his friends at this incredibly sad time.”