BBC Radio 2 legend Ken Bruce emotional as he pays tribute to Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker has been the subject of tributes following the news of his death and former BBC Radio 2 colleague Ken Bruce was among those who reacted to the news

Radio host Ken Bruce has paid tribute to his late former colleague Johnnie Walker following the news of his death.

It was announced on Tuesday that Johnnie - who had worked on BBC Radio - had died, aged 79. The news comes just two months after he retired from radio after being diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which affects the lungs.

Among those who paid tribute to the late presenter - who fronted shows like the Rock Show - following the news was his former colleague Ken, 73 - who left BBC Radio 2 last year after decades on the station. He described Johnnie as a "wonderful broadcaster" in a post on social media.

Ken wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Tuesday: "So sorry to hear the news about the great Johnnie Walker. Not only was he a wonderful broadcaster but also a man of great personal strength and kindness."

Johnnie's death was announced live on air on Radio 2 and BBC Sounds on New Year's Eve by his friend Bob Harris, 78, who took over presenting his show Sounds of the 70s in November. There's since been an outpouring of tributes.

The late radio host's wife Tiggy Walker said: "I couldn't be more proud of Johnnie - how he kept broadcasting almost to the end and with what dignity and grace he coped with his debilitating lung disease. He remained his charming, humorous self to the end, what a strong amazing man.

"It has been a rollercoaster ride from start to finish. And if I may say - what a day to go. He'll be celebrating New Year's Eve with a stash of great musicians in heaven. One year on from his last live show. God bless that extraordinary husband of mine who is now in a place of peace."

Theatre star Elaine Paige - who has her own show on Radio 2 - wrote in her tribute post: "So very sad to hear my @BBCRadio2 colleague Johnny Walker has died." She added: "My deepest condolences to his wife Tiggy and his family. He will be so deeply missed by everyone. RIP dear Johnnie."

Whilst Tim Davie, BBC Director General, also issued a statement on the news. Tim said: "We are deeply saddened by the news of Johnnie's passing and our thoughts are with his family and friends, as well as everyone at Radio 2.

"Johnnie was a pop radio pioneer and a champion of great music, entertaining millions of beloved listeners on the BBC across decades, most recently hosting two shows on Radio 2. No-one loved the audience as much as Johnnie, and we loved him back."

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