BBC radio presenter hailed a 'true legend' in broadcasting dies aged 86 after a long illness as tributes pour in

Daily Mail​

a day ago

BBC radio presenter Gerry Kersey hailed a broadcasting 'legend' has passed away aged 86.
The BBC Sheffield journalist had reportedly been ill for some time and passed away on Friday morning with his wife Christine by his side.
Gerry worked for both the BBC and independent radio over the years, as well as fulfilling his love of art with paintings featured in exhibitions and performing in the theatre.
Announcing his death on Sunday, BBC Sheffield said: 'We have some sad news to share. Former BBC Radio Sheffield presenter Gerry Kersey has passed away.
'Gerry was an enduring voice on BBC Radio Sheffield for many years, and Radio Hallam before that. He was such a gifted presenter and a wonderfully kind and supportive colleague off-air.
'He was also a talented artist. Our thoughts are with his friends and family.'
BBC radio presenter Gerry Kersey hailed a broadcasting 'legend' has passed away aged 86 after an illness
Before radio, Gerry worked at a steelworks site, of which he told the Sheffield Star in 2018: 'It was hot, sticky, dark and dangerous and the air was full of chemicals.
'But it was also a magnificent stage featuring molten steel, sparks and tough fit men manipulating massive forgings and machinery.'
But broadcasting was the goal, and he made that his career: 'I decided, with my wife's full approval, that although it was only earning £12 a week I would take it on and see what I could do.'
A number of tributes poured in from the star from former to colleagues to fans.
Katrina Bunker, Head of BBC Yorkshire, said: 'Gerry was a true legend of local broadcasting, starting his career in 1968 as one of the first voices on BBC Radio Sheffield.
'Wherever you went around the area you would always meet someone who loved Gerry's show.'
She continued: 'In later years he was known for request-based and nostalgia shows and he got loads of letters, emails and calls right up to his last show in 2020.
'Wherever you went around the area you would always meet someone who loved Gerry's show.
'Off-mic, Gerry was just as much of a gentleman as he was on it, always encouraging, always warm and proud to still be on the radio after 50 years. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.'
His former co-star, football reporter Alan Biggs. said: 'Radio listeners in Sheffield will mourn the passing of Gerry Kersey. Gerry was a mainstay of both Radio Sheffield & Radio Hallam (where I was lucky to work with the nicest bloke).
'Super talented; actor & artist also. Thinking of Gerry's family & many friends.'
He added: 'Not just in Sheffield. Would have said South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire if more characters allowed for the post. Some wonderful heartfelt replies that I am sure will be much appreciated by Gerry's family.'
Sheffield Council executive director Kate Martin said: 'So sorry to read this news. Gerry was a true servant supporting our city and community.
'My sincere condolences go out to Gerry's family and friends at this difficult time.'
Lib Dem Lord Shaffaq Mohammed: 'So sad to hear about the passing of Gerry, I recall both his time at Hallam FM & more recently @BBCSheffield particularly on a Sunday teatime show where our paths would cross.
'My Thoughts & Prayers are with his family, friends and colleagues.'
His former co-star, football reporter Alan Biggs. said: 'Radio listeners in Sheffield will mourn the passing of Gerry Kersey'
Sheffield Council executive director Kate Martin said: 'So sorry to read this news. Gerry was a true servant supporting our city and community'
Lib Dem Lord Shaffaq Mohammed: 'So sad to hear about the passing of Gerry, I recall both his time at Hallam FM & more recently @BBCSheffield particularly on a Sunday teatime show where our paths would cross'
Others paid tribute to Gerry, writing: 'When I read this sad news I suddenly remembered Gerrys voice which was always there on the Radio as I was growing up. So sad my condolences to his family. Rip the Great Gerry Kersey. Your voice will always be remembered & never forgotten here in Sheffield !';
'So sad, one of those voices that you grew up with as a kid as if he was in the house with you. RIP,';
'This is sad news, always listened to his show,'; 'Sad news indeed he was an excellent radio presenter,';
'I remember listening to Gerry Kersey both on radio Sheffield and before that on Hallam A great loss to broadcasting.'