BBC Icon Departs After 31 Years with Heartfelt Farewell

 

Renowned BBC radio host Andrew Peach bids farewell to his esteemed 31-year career with the broadcaster, marking the end of an era in his illustrious journey.

Peach’s radio legacy commenced in 1989 when he clinched a competition with the West Midlands station, earning the opportunity to report on life in Cologne and Bonn. His affiliation with BBC Radio Oxford began in 1991, before transitioning to BBC Radio Berkshire in 1992, where he helmed the Saturday morning breakfast show.

Throughout his tenure, Peach graced the airwaves with his distinctive voice, anchoring prominent programmes like the Six O’Clock News on BBC Radio 4, Newshour, and The Newsroom. Notably, his resonant tones graced BBC Radio 2, prominently featuring on The Chris Evans Show for news bulletins.

In 2022, marking three decades on the airwaves, he received a flood of well-wishes from prominent figures in showbiz, broadcasting, and even politics. Notable personalities such as Zoe Ball, Jane Hill, Jeremy Vine, Dermot O’Leary, and Theresa May, alongside Tim Davie, Director-General of the BBC, extended their congratulations.

Throughout his 18-year tenure at BBC Berkshire, Andrew has been an integral part of the station. His acclaimed daily news and phone-in show, recognised as the Best Local Radio Show in the UK at the Academy ARIA Awards in 2021, have solidified his standing.

In a poignant farewell, upon announcing his departure, Andrew reflected on his extensive career, sharing cherished highlights and proudest moments.

From his broadcasts spanning across the globe, from Düsseldorf, Prague, Rome, and even Washington DC, Andrew reflected on his enduring support for Reading FC. He recounted the highs and lows of being a fan, from numerous playoff final defeats to the club’s promotion to the Premier League in 2006.

Describing his tenure at the BBC as his pinnacle, he held his role and time there in high regard. His daily radio shows, like the one he hosted, he deemed as fostering a sincere and intimate connection with the audience.

“We’ve chosen to spend time together day after day, month after month, year after year. That relationship is so precious, and I know I will miss it dearly. The programme has united people, applied gentle pressure where needed, and led to positive changes,” he expressed.

In bidding farewell, Andrew concluded by expressing his pursuit of new challenges, stating that he must “find some new mountains to climb.” Grateful for over three decades in his “dream job,” Andrew’s next career move remains uncertain.

However, confirmation has been received that his radio show will endure under the stewardship of Romesh Ranganathan, a comedian, actor, and fellow radio host.