Tributes are being paid to talkSPORT presenter Danny Kelly, who has died aged 69 after undergoing treatment for cancer.
The broadcaster had been part of the station since 2007 and stepped back from his programmes in March after revealing that he had been diagnosed with oesophageal cancer.
Danny joined talkSPORT to front its coverage of Euro 2008 and went on to present programmes including Trans-Europe Express and Kick Off, as well as regularly appearing on Hawksbee and Jacobs.
Before his years in sports radio, he worked in music journalism, editing NME and Q magazine. He also presented BBC radio programmes and worked alongside his friend and fellow broadcaster Danny Baker.
talkSPORT said Danny had brought “extraordinary wit, warmth and knowledge to our airwaves” and remembered his enthusiasm for football, music and life.
One memorable moment came during Tottenham’s 4-4 draw with Arsenal in 2008, when Aaron Lennon’s late equaliser prompted Danny to declare on air: “I love football, Stan. I love it.”
In March, Danny spoke to listeners about his diagnosis during Kelly and Baker, explaining that he faced a lengthy course of treatment. He also encouraged anyone with worrying symptoms to seek medical advice.
Danny Baker paid tribute to his friend, writing: “My great friend, supreme broadcaster and funniest man I ever knew, Danny Kelly, died yesterday afternoon. I cannot believe I will never hear his voice again.”
Colleague Simon Jordan recalled how Danny had helped him develop his broadcasting career, while Tottenham Hotspur, the club Danny supported throughout his life, also paid tribute.
talkSPORT extended its condolences to Danny’s wife Alex, his family, friends and listeners.
See a video of Danny chatting with RadioToday about how much he loves radio and working at talkSPORT, from 2013.
