BBC Radio Cumbria legend Richard Nankivell has died at the age of 75 following a short illness. The news was confirmed by the station on its Facebook page. Alongside a picture of the star they penned: "We are very sad to announce the death of one of BBC Radio Cumbria’s best-known presenters, Richard Nankivell, who has died aged 75 after a short illness. He will be remembered fondly by listeners across Cumbria and beyond."

Devasted listeners rushed to pay tribute to the star in the comments. "So sorry very sad news listened to him every night on radio. One of the best presenters. Radio Cumbria isn't the same anymore," one penned. "So sad to hear this. I remember Richard from way back, in the 1970s he worked on BFBS (forces radio) with Richard Astbury they were a great pair. They wouldn’t get away today with some of the things they got up to then RIP Nankers old horse," another added

A third chimed in: "He was an amazingly talented and totally one to one broadcaster who was a great member of the team. Very sad."

A fourth shared: "Best presenter I've ever listened to. Loved waking up with him on the morning show. Sincere sympathy and condolences to all his family and colleagues."

A fifth commented: "Such sad news Richard was a legend of a presenter he made you feel as if he was talking to you alone. Condolences and prayers to all his family and friends."

Mean while a sixth opined: "Fine broadcaster, very professional, informative, educational and amusing at different times. Condolences to his family and friends."

Originally from Bideford, North Devon, Richard had trained as a livestock auctioneer with his family business after leaving school but in 1972 he decided he wanted to see the world!

He joined The British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS) presenting and producing programmes overseas for HM Forces which took him to Cyprus, Gibraltar, Germany, Belize, The Falklands and the Gulf.

He later admitted a strange claim to fame was that he "did commentary for BFBS for four consecutive years in four different countries at The Eurovision Song Contest."

After 20 years overseas he returned to the UK in 1992 and joined BBC Radio Cumbria.He remained there until he retired in April 2015.