Johnnie Walker, legendary BBC Radio presenter, dies aged 79

Popular radio presenter Johnnie Walker, a former pirate radio DJ who began his career with the BBC in 1969, has died aged 79.

In 1969, a year after Radio Caroline closed, Walker joined BBC Radio 1, and he remained there until 1976, when he was involved in a dispute with BBC management over the music he played.

Helen Thomas, head of BBC Radio 2, said: “Everyone at Radio 2 is heartbroken about the passing of Johnnie, a much-loved broadcasting legend.