'We will miss him': tributes as BBC Radio Merseyside legend dies

Andy Ball
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


BBC Radio Merseyside legend Andy Ball has died. Andy worked as a presenter and reporter for the radio station for nearly 30 years.

Described as a "regular favourite" by the BBC, Andy presented a range of programmes during his career including the Lunchtime Phone-in, Mid-Morning and Breakfast, and special programmes such as the station's coverage of the Sea Odyssey Festival in Liverpool in 2012.

A statement issued by BBC Merseyside on Facebook said: "We’re sad to have to tell you that our friend and Colleague Andy Ball has passed away. Andy worked for BBC Merseyside for nearly 30 years as a presenter, reporter and part of the management team.

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"He loved the river and enjoyed nothing more than getting out into the communities right across the whole of Merseyside. We will miss him dearly and send all our love and condolences to his wife Lynn and family."

BBC Radio Merseyside last Morning Breakfast show with Linda McDermott and Andy Ball as they broadcast from Richie's Butty Bar in Paradise Street, Liverpool in 2005
BBC Radio Merseyside last Morning Breakfast show with Linda McDermott and Andy Ball as they broadcast from Richie's Butty Bar in Paradise Street, Liverpool in 2005 -Credit: Photo by Colin Lane

Andy was host of the breakfast show alongside Linda McDermott, with the pair broadcasting their last show in 2005 from the much-missed Richie's Butty Bar on the pre-Liverpool ONE Paradise Street. He also played a key role in the Liverpool ECHO's 2006 publication Save the Manxman.

Among those paying tribute today on the post announcing his death were former ECHO Everton editor Greg O'Keeffe, who said: "During a brief spell working in the BBCRM offices on Hanover Street in 2018 I was struck by how friendly and welcoming Andy was to people. It was clear to see the respect and affection his colleagues had for him, and he seemed to have time and a chat for everyone. A gentleman. Condolences to his family and everyone who worked with Andy"

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Listener Ray Thomson said: "So so sad news about Andy...A lovely gentleman with time for everyone I remember his last broadcast and he started his well deserved retirement with Lynne his wife.

"I was a constant listener to his programme Paths in time with Stephen Guy whom I had a West Derby Tour with recently, and mentioned Andy and the Paths in time."

Tony Smith added: "He always came across as a friend on the air, a very knowledgeable and clever friend but always a friend."

Andrea Day said: "I am so sad to hear this news. Having worked at Radio Merseyside for a few years, Andy was always so generous with his time and patience with everyone. He truly loved Liverpool, the station and all the people in it. Such a lasting impact that he will have had."