BBC Radio Cumbria has announced the tragic passing of one of its most iconic and cherished presenters, Richard Nankivell, at the age of 75. The station confirmed the sad news on its official Facebook page, revealing that he died following a brief illness.
Heartfelt Announcement and Immediate Fan Response
The station's emotional post was accompanied by a poignant photograph of the broadcasting veteran, stating: "We are very sad to announce the death of one of BBC Radio Cumbria's best-known presenters, Richard Nankivell, who has died aged 75 after a short illness. He will be remembered fondly by listeners across Cumbria and beyond."
Within moments, devastated fans flooded the comments section with moving tributes, expressing their profound grief and admiration for the presenter's unique talent.
Listener Tributes Pour In
One long-time listener wrote: "So sorry, very sad news. I listened to him every night on the radio. One of the best presenters. Radio Cumbria isn't the same anymore." Another reflected on his earlier career, noting: "So sad to hear this. I remember Richard from way back, in the 1970s, he worked on BFBS (Forces Radio) with Richard Astbury, they were a great pair. They wouldn't get away today with some of the things they got up to then RIP Nankers old horse."
A third admirer praised his distinctive style, saying: "He was an amazingly talented and totally one-to-one broadcaster who was a great member of the team. Very sad." Meanwhile, a devoted fan expressed: "Best presenter I've ever listened to. Loved waking up with him on the morning show. Sincere sympathy and condolences to all his family and colleagues."
Further tributes highlighted his professional versatility, with one comment reading: "Fine broadcaster, very professional, informative, educational and amusing at different times. Condolences to his family and friends." Another described him as "a legend of a presenter, he made you feel as if he was talking to you alone."
A Remarkable Broadcasting Career
Richard Nankivell hailed originally from Bideford in North Devon, where he initially trained as a livestock auctioneer within the family business after completing his education. However, in 1972, he embarked on an adventurous career change that would define his life.
International Service with BFBS
He joined The British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS), where he presented and produced programmes for HM Forces across multiple international postings. His work took him to diverse locations including Cyprus, Gibraltar, Germany, Belize, The Falkland Islands, and the Gulf region.
During this period, he developed an unusual claim to fame, later acknowledging that he "did commentary for BFBS for four consecutive years in four different countries at The Eurovision Song Contest."
Long-Standing Tenure at BBC Radio Cumbria
After two decades of service abroad, Richard returned to the United Kingdom in 1992 and promptly joined BBC Radio Cumbria. He remained a cornerstone of the station's broadcasting team for over two decades, finally retiring in April 2015 after 23 years of dedicated service.
His passing marks the end of an era for the station and its loyal audience, who remember him not just as a presenter, but as a familiar voice that became part of their daily lives.
