BBC star says 'this is worst year of my life' after show axe and husband's death

BBC Radio 1 star's mum interrupts show with bedroom confession

Linda McDermott's much loved radio programme Under the Duvet Club has been re-instated from BBC Radio Merseyside to Liverpool Live Radio, much to the excitement of her fans.

The show was originally axed on the BBC after the controversial re-organisation of its local radio services across England, with more shows becoming networked instead of its usual local output.

Linda McDermott’s much loved radio programme Under the Duvet Club has been re-instated (Image: Liverpool Live Radio)

“Thank you for all of the words of encouragement, beautiful messages of support, and kindness to me, not only tonight, but over the past few months, because it’s been the worst year of my life, losing John, Johnny Kennedy, the legend, my awesome, beloved husband.

"It’s taken a lot of persuasion and a lot of pressure, gentle, but relentless, to get me back on air. But radio is my happy place, that little box that connects people all over the world in one big conversation. What could be better than that.”

Announcing the news earlier this week on social media, Liverpool Live Radio said: "‘STOP THE PRESS’ It is a new show alert! Linda McDermott joins the team at Liverpool Live with her legendary “Under the duvet club”! Starting this Sunday night 10pm – 1am, Only on Liverpool Live Radio’”

Several fans took to social media, with one Facebook user, saying “This makes sense, people from around the world listened to her, listening figures will go through the roof,”

Johnny Kennedy pictured during his days at the Dune FM radio station in Southport. (Image: Southport Visiter)

Fellow former BBC radio broadcasters Roger Lyon, Frankie Connor, and Billy Butler MBE also expressed their delight at Linda's return to the airwaves. All three host shows on the station.

Linda's husband Johnny, originally from Everton, died on January 24 at the age of 88. Best known for his work on Radio City, he was also heard on the airwaves of Dune FM, Wirral Radio and River Radio.

He also worked as a singer and comedian. Johnny was a fixture of the Northern club circuit before graduating to some of the country's biggest stages, including the Liverpool Empire and London Palladium, and compèring for The Beatles.

After changing careers to become a teacher, Johnny returned to entertainment when he began working in radio in the 1980s. He was a beloved Radio City presenter, and his 'Bride of the Week' feature is fondly remembered.

He was laid to rest on Wednesday (February 14) at Francis Xavier's Roman Catholic Church on Salisbury Street, Everton. Hundreds of people attended the service.

Linda recalled the outstanding career and achievements of her adored husband.

"It's the 13th of June 1963, and five talented likely lads from Liverpool are being driven in a van to perform at the Offerton Palace, Stockport and Manchester Southern Sporting Club. The van rounds the corner and is suddenly besieged by hundreds of screaming girls. "