The broadcasting community in Cumbria and beyond is mourning the loss of a cherished voice, as BBC Radio Cumbria announced the death of presenter Richard Nankivell at the age of 75. He passed away following a short illness, with the sad news confirmed on Tuesday.
A Distinguished Broadcasting Career
Richard Nankivell, affectionately known as 'Nanks' to colleagues and listeners, joined BBC Radio Cumbria in 1992 and remained a fixture at the station until his retirement in 2015. His career in broadcasting spanned over four decades, beginning long before his time in Cumbria.
Born in North Devon, Nankivell initially trained as a livestock auctioneer before embarking on his broadcasting journey. He started with The British Forces Broadcasting Service in 1972, which led to an extraordinary 20-year period working overseas.
International Experience and Return to the UK
During his time with the British Forces Broadcasting Service, Nankivell worked in numerous locations including Cyprus, Gibraltar, Germany, Belize, The Falklands and the Gulf. He served as both presenter and producer, honing the skills that would later make him so popular with Cumbrian audiences.
Upon returning to the United Kingdom, he found his broadcasting home at BBC Radio Cumbria, where he quickly became one of the station's most recognizable and beloved voices.
Tributes from Colleagues and Listeners
Radio Cumbria's executive editor Chris Rick shared heartfelt words about his former colleague: 'Richard's humour and brilliant understanding of radio made his shows very popular in Cumbria. Richard, or Nanks as we all called him, was a much-loved colleague who was as funny and entertaining off air as he was on the radio.'
Rick added: 'Even though he retired over 10 years ago, he was still talked about fondly by the BBC Cumbria team with stories about the big personality that he was.'
The station's official statement read: '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.'
Listener Memories and Legacy
Following the announcement on BBC Radio Cumbria's Facebook page, listeners shared their condolences and memories of the presenter. One fan wrote: 'Absolute legend, I loved listening to his show on Radio Cumbria when I worked a night shift.'
Another commented: 'An amazing presenter. Unique and just knew how to create brilliant radio. He was also a lovely man. He’s left us with so many wonderful memories. Thank you Nanks.'
A third listener noted: 'Such a distinctive voice on the Cumbrian airwaves, funny, clever fella, Rest in peace Nanks.'
Personal Life and Family
Richard Nankivell is survived by his wife Heather Wainwright, who continues the broadcasting tradition as Radio Cumbria's breakfast newsreader. The couple's shared connection to the station created a unique family dynamic within the BBC Cumbria community.
His passing marks the end of an era for BBC Radio Cumbria, where his distinctive voice and personality left an indelible mark on both colleagues and the listening public throughout the region.
