January 27th 2024.
Renowned radio host Walter Love has passed away at the age of 88, bringing an end to his impressive 77-year career in broadcasting. His family shared the sad news on Friday, January 26, revealing that Love had passed away at his nursing home after a brief illness. The beloved BBC Northern Ireland broadcaster had just wrapped up his final Jazz Club show last year, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Love's name became synonymous with radio, thanks to his popular shows "Love in the Afternoon" and "Radio Ulster's Day By Day." Last year, he bid farewell to his long-running "Jazz Club with Walter Love" show, after dedicating over seven decades to the industry. His journey began in the 1950s, when he worked as a freelance contributor for BBC radio before landing a job as a studio manager in London. He then moved to Belfast, where he spent a decade as a TV newsreader before joining Radio Ulster in 1978. Love remained a beloved presence on the airwaves until 2023.
Known for his friendly and kind nature, Love's work was highly regarded and in 1997, he was awarded an MBE for his contributions to broadcasting. In 2014, he was inducted into the Phonographic Performance Ireland Radio Awards Hall of Fame, a testament to his talent and passion for his craft. His passing has left a void in the broadcasting industry, and tributes from colleagues and fans have been pouring in.
Director of BBC Northern Ireland, Adam Smyth, paid tribute to Love, calling him an "incredible performer on air" and describing him as "genial, kind, and cheerful," with a touch of mischief. Smyth added, "He loved presenting radio programmes and his melodious voice, ability to create rapport, and his extensive knowledge of music made him one of our longest-serving and most beloved broadcasters."
Irish News columnist Anne Hailes, who had known Love since they were teenagers, shared fond memories of their time together. She described him as a "great mischief maker" who never failed to make her laugh during their morning studio sessions. Hailes went on to say that Love was a versatile and talented individual, who was loved by everyone he encountered. "More than anything else, he valued friendship," she said. "People will remember him more than fondly - he was Love by name, love by nature."
Love's passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, and the entertainment industry has lost a true legend. If you have a story to share about Walter Love, please get in touch with The Agency entertainment team. You can email us, call us, or visit our Submit Stuff page - we'd love to hear from you. And as we mourn the loss of Love, let's also remember to celebrate his life and the incredible legacy he leaves behind.
Rest in peace, Walter Love. Your voice and your love for music will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing you.
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