BBC legend dies as devastated colleagues pay tribute to 'champion of local radio'

Daily Mirror

5 days ago

A star of BBC radio has sadly passed away as tributes from his former colleagues and friends pour in for the iconic one-time Managing Editor of BBC Radio Lincolnshire
Colleagues have been paying their respects to Charlie Partridge following the announcement of his passing. The respected media figure had a long-standing career with the BBC, serving as Managing Editor of BBC Radio Lincolnshire from 1999 until his departure in 2020.
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Tributes poured in over social media on Saturday, July 19, led by former BBC News Foreign Correspondent and presenter Jonathan Charles. While the cause of death has not been disclosed, Jonathan shared his personal reflections on Twitter: "I am very sorry to hear of the loss of Charlie Partridge. More than 45 years ago, he taught me a lot about broadcasting @BBCNottingham - he was a great guy and we stayed in touch, occasionally swapping messages in the years since. Sometimes discussing @springsteen - My thoughts are with his family."
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He also shared a tribute from John Hess, who expressed his sorrow and celebrated Charlie's life and contributions to public service broadcasting and local radio.
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BBC Radio Lincolnshire's own Sean Dunderdale joined in commemorating his late colleague with a touching post accompanied by a photo of the two together. He wrote: "As others have posted online, I'm deeply saddened to have learnt yesterday of the death of Charlie Partridge."
In a further tribute, Sean recalled his personal connection to Charlie, saying: "I remember - and often reminded him - of how, when a teenager, I listened to his breakfast show on Radio Humberside."
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"When he was appointed Managing Editor at Radio Lincolnshire, I showed him around Lincs FM and spent years winding him up with daft stunts - including parking my Lincs FM car right outside the BBC reception doors and other such tricks.
"I was proud to then become his final presenter appointment before his well deserved retirement from the BBC. His love of radio - especially local radio - shone through everything he did. He continued to judge the National Hospital Awards for me right up until earlier this year and was always full of praise for the winning entries."
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Sean added: "He was the genius behind Lip Dub Lincoln (check it out on YouTube) and created Lincolnshire Day and the Lincolnshire flag - neither would have happened without Charlie. Next time you see the flag, think of the great Charlie Partridge. Lincolnshire is poorer for his passing but much richer for the time spent he with us."
Former BBC presenter Andy Comfort posted on Twitter: "Oh my goodness. How sad. Charlie was indeed a champion of BBC Local Radio and I very much enjoyed working with him, especially in my NUJ role. Condolences to Jill and family and friends. RIP Charlie."
BBC radio fans also paid their respects, with one writing: "Sad to hear Jonathan, John. Charlie was a lovely man, who believed in truly local radio. He was also very kind and supportive. Thoughts with his family."
Another added: "It is indeed very sad Jonathan. Lovely man."
This follows the announcement five years ago that the editors of BBC Radio Lancashire, Radio York and Radio Lincolnshire, including Charlie, had opted for voluntary redundancy.