Chris Needs dead: BBC Radio Wales host dies, aged 68

The presenter formed a listeners' club for fans of his late-night programme 
BBC
Rachel McGrath27 July 2020
The Weekender

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BBC broadcaster Chris Needs has died after a short period of illness, it has been confirmed.

The sad news was announced by BBC Radio Wales, in a statement which read: “It is with enormous sadness and regret that we confirm the death of Chris Needs MBE following a short period of ill health.

“Through his Friendly Garden, Chris brought pleasure and comfort to thousands of listeners, from all over the world, who treated him like a true friend.”

Friendly Garden was a listeners’ club formed by Needs while he presented his daily, late-night show.

Anyone could sign up to be a member and upon doing so, they would receive a membership number and goody bag.

Needs died aged 68.

Greg James is among the fans who have shared their condolences online.

He wrote on Twitter: "Such sad news. Sending all our love from Radio 1. Loved featuring Chris on my show over the years. And it was an honour to have been welcomed into the Friendly Garden.

“What goes up a drainpipe down but...no hang on...what goes down a drainpipe up...oh I dunno!”

Needs' radio career began in the early 1990s when he worked for an independent station.

He joined the BBC in 1996 as part of a revamp of the schedules and after hosting various daytime slots, he landed his solo late-night gig.

In 2005, he was awarded an MBE for his charity work and services to broadcasting.

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