Tributes paid after sudden death of radio legend Pete
THE broadcasting world has paid tribute to Mancunian legend Pete Mitchell who has passed away at the age of 61.
The Virgin Radio presenter and veteran broadcaster died suddenly on Thursday.
Pete, whose career in radio spanned 34 years, collapsed while out walking near his home in Stockport.
Family friend Jo Houlcroft said: “It is with incredible sadness that I have to report the sad passing of Virgin Radio Presenter, Pete Mitchell, who died very suddenly on Thursday 12th March aged 61.
“Pete collapsed whilst out walking near his home in Stockport, the cause of his death is still unknown but he was not thought to be displaying any signs of illness.
“Pete was a veteran broadcaster, whose career in radio spanned thirty four years. He was knowledgeable and passionate about music of all genres, discovering and supporting many bands and was a huge part of the Manchester music scene.
“His wife Helen and two grown up sons Adam and Sean are devastated by their loss.
“His family have asked for privacy at this very difficult time.”
Mike Cass, content director for Virgin Radio UK, said: “It’s incredibly difficult to think about Pete in the past tense. He was a great radio talent, a skilled interviewer, a true part of the Virgin Radio spirit and a wonderful man.”
Virgin Radio presenter Tim Cocker tweeted in tribute: “Absolutely crushing to hear of the sad death of Pete Mitchell.
“A gentle man, a wicked sense of humour and an encyclopedic knowledge of, and utter love for, music.
“An honour to fill your huge boots at XFM Manchester. And to work alongside you at @VirginRadioUK. “A Mancunian legend.” His former Key 103 colleague Steve Penk said: “Shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the death of Pete Mitchell. Our time together at Key 103 was something I always remember as happy and lots of fun.
“Thoughts and much love to Pete’s family x #RIPPeteMitchell”
BBC Radio 6 Music presenter Chris Hawkins wrote: “Pete Mitchell was not only a brilliant and passionate DJ but he was a really honest bloke and a lovely, supportive person. He will be missed by so many.”
Announcing the tragic news on its website Virgin Radio said: “Our thoughts are with all of those close to Pete at this difficult time. We will be broadcasting a tribute at a later date. “Rest In Peace, Pete.” And The Charlatans singer Tim Burgess said: “Oh man, so sad to hear that Pete Mitchell has died.
“He was a friend of ours for thirty years. One of the first DJs to play and champion The Charlatans.
“Always a pleasure to catch up with him, such fond memories of our times together. My thoughts are with Pete’s family and friends.”
Pete, who was born in
Crumpsall, was a presenter on Manchester’s Piccadilly Radio and Key 103 as well as BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music, Radio X and Absolute Radio and was one half of duo Pete and Geoff on Virgin Radio who from January 2003 to December 2005 hosted the flagship breakfast show.
Pete, an aspiring musician who moved into management and production, began his broadcasting career in 1986 as a sports commentator for Red Rose Radio in Lancashire and he moved to Manchester’s Piccadilly Radio in 1988 and went on to become a champion of indie bands of the Madchester music scene.
He was introduced to copresenter Geoff Lloyd, an aspiring comedy writer and performer and fellow radio presenter, by The Royle Family writer and actor Craig Cash.
In 1996 they were asked by Key 103 to co-present the afternoon show and established a cult following with their witty banter.
In 1998 they won a Sony Radio Academy Award for an interview with Noel Gallagher and the following year were recruited by Virgin Radio for the drive time show, where they won another Sony Award for an interview with Paul McCartney.
At Key 103 Pete presented breakfast and afternoon shows and had his own specialist weekend music programme IQ featuring guest interviews and live sets from established and up-andcoming acts such as Oasis, Inspiral Carpets, James, Badly Drawn Boy, 808 State and Happy Mondays.
During his time at Virgin, Pete hosted the critically acclaimed Razor Cuts featuring new bands, exclusive sessions and interviews.
He had a love of alternative music and passion for funk, soul and Motown and made various appearances as a club DJ at venues including the legendary Hacienda.