TRIBUTES TO ‘RADIO MAN’ JOHN
Ex-signal breakfast show host dies of cancer at 63
FORMER Signal DJS have led tributes to the station’s first-ever breakfast show presenter.
John Evington hosted the breakfast show from the station’s launch in 1983 and spent 22 years with the Stoke-based broadcaster.
The 63-year-old, who had cancer, passed away at the weekend.
In a statement, his family said: “John passed away peacefully with his devoted partner Jo at his side.
“He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and colleagues. Jo and John packed a lot into their time together and loved each other dearly.”
DJ John spoke the first words on Signal Radio on September 5, 1983. The first song played on the station was
Neil Diamond’s
Beautiful Noise. During his time as programme controller, John famously banned East 17 from its playlist following band member Brian Harvey’s controversial comments about ecstasy.
Former colleagues have paid tribute to John on social media.
Paul Fairclough said: “John was always good with me, very supportive, and a radio man through and through. The industry will miss him greatly.”
Paul Anthony landed his firstever Signal show in 1985 thanks to John.
He said: “His passion for radio and nurturing new talent was incredible.
“There are so many household names now in the world of entertainment that John gave their first break to, and for that they, and me, all owe him a huge debt of gratitude.”
Colin Cook added: “Radio has lost one of the nicest people in the business. He will be missed by everyone that ever knew him.”
Spence Macdonald said: “John was one of the few true believers in me and was a kind and generous man with radio running through his soul.”