Tributes paid to BBC Radio Solent’s Richard Cartridge

BBC Radio Solent has paid tribute to presenter Richard Cartridge who has died after a short illness.

Richard also worked on Bournemouth’s former commercial station 2CR, and hosted programmes on Classic FM. He first joined BBC Radio Solent in the 1970s.

He hosted his last weekend show earlier this year and officially retired in June.

Many of his friends and colleagues have paid tribute via social media, and BBC Radio Solent has aired a special programme today.

Jason Horton, Head of the BBC in the East and South East, said: “Richard Cartridge was the most generous and warm-hearted man in Radio. A huge loss for his family and his BBC Radio Solent audience. That voice will live on forever.”

Former BBC Radio Solent mid-morning presenter and colleague Sasha Twining tweeted: “So very sad to hear the wonderful, kind, fun, erudite, broadcasting giant, Richard Cartridge, has died. The gentleman of the studio, the warm wit, the twinkle in his eye, and the moment he had for everyone.

“When I first joined BBC Radio Solent all anyone said was ‘Have you met Richard Cartridge yet?’ and ‘What’s Richard like?’
You cannot overstate the esteem he was held in by listeners and colleagues alike. My thoughts are with his family, and his wider family across the south who will feel the loss so acutely. A true friend, both on the air to many, and in the corridors of the station to all.

“The news broke earlier this morning, while Alex Dyke was on-air. This is a beautiful heartfelt tribute to him put together by the team who would have been utterly shocked and heartbroken, but desperate to do Richard proud. Have a listen.. the news breaks an hour in, and the running order goes out of the window..

“Rest in peace Richard. May your headphones never crackle, your needle never jump, and your final song always hit the perfect back time. You will be much missed xx.”