BBC radio star quits after 45 years due to ‘health hiccups’

A much-loved BBC Radio star has announced his decision to quit the broadcaster after 45 years.

Roy Noble currently presents a weekly Sunday morning show on BBC Radio Wales but in an emotional letter to “friends, compatriots and fellow travellers”, he’s now announced his exit.

In the letter, posted on social media, the 83-year-old said he came to the decision “after a great deal of thought”, adding: “By the time I present my final show in March 2027, I will have spent 46 wonderful years with BBC Wales. It’s been the privilege of a lifetime.”

“I’ve been fortunate enough to meet extraordinary people, hear remarkable stories and, most importantly of all, spend time with you, the listeners,” he continued.

“Radio has changed enormously over the years. Wales has changed too. But one thing has remained constant and that’s the privilege of being welcomed into your homes and lives.

“Along the way, I’ve been fortunate enough to make countless friends, many of whom I’ve never actually met because they’ve been listening at the other end of the radio.”

Explaining why he’s decided it’s time to step away, Noble continued: “The signs that retirement was approaching may have included my growing suspicion that ‘apps’ were invented purely to confuse me.

“The odd hiccup in health has sent signals too. But the truth is I’ve simply reached a point where it feels right to begin a new chapter.”

The presenter added that “this isn’t goodbye” right now, as “we still have several months ahead of us, and I’m looking forward to making the most of them together”.

“There will be time for memories, stories and celebrations before I finally hang up the headphones,” he said, adding that he will return in an ambassadorial role when Radio Wales celebrates its 50th birthday in 2028.

The DJ signed off his post in Welsh, with “diolch o galon i bob un ohonoch chi – mae e wedi bod yn fraint”, which means: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you – it’s been a privilege.”

Famous faces and fans alike have commented on the Instagram post, with singer Katherine Jenkins writing: “Roy you are such a legend. It was always a treat to be interviewed by you. Thank you for all the joy you have brought us over the years.”

“You are an icon and will be missed but also so important to enjoy retirement,” said one fan.

“Truly one of the nation’s most beloved broadcasters and a friendly voice for so many,” wrote another. “Best wishes for a long and happy retirement!”

A former headteacher, Noble moved into broadcasting in the early 1980s and began presenting a weekday magazine show on Radio Wales in 1985, which he hosted for 27 years until 2012, when he moved to the Sunday morning slot.

A huge shake-up is currently underway at the BBC as the corporation is attempting to make £500m in savings across the next two years.

The cost-cutting measures have seen multiple Radio 4 shows axed, while the Today show presenting team has been slimmed down and high-profile exits have been announced at Radio 1.