Howard Hughes, former BBC radio presenter, passes away

Howard Hughes, a former newsreader and presenter for BBC Radio Berkshire, has passed away. Hughes was notable as the inaugural voice on BBC Radio Berkshire upon its launch in 1992. Subsequently, he delivered news for the Capital Breakfast Show, where he collaborated with Chris Tarrant. Later in his career, he initiated a podcast titled The Unexplained, which delved into topics such as space, science, and the paranormal. An announcement posted on the podcast’s official website on Saturday confirmed that the “beloved and respected” presenter had died one week prior. Adam Cornwell, who assisted in the production of Hughes’ podcast for sixteen years, stated in the same post that Hughes left behind a substantial archive and legacy. Cornwell’s written statement read: “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Howard Hughes, the beloved and respected creator of The Unexplained With Howard Hughes and a dear friend who sadly died a week ago.” In an accompanying audio message on the webpage, Cornwell mentioned that the presenter’s death followed a brief illness. He further stated: “He wasn’t simply a presenter, he was a friend to those who tuned in, a guide who journeyed with them through the unknown and, for long-time listeners, a constant through life’s good and bad times.” Cornwell concluded: “Howard will be forever missed but never forgotten.” During his career, Hughes conducted interviews with notable celebrities, including David Bowie and Lionel Richie, and prominent figures such as Tony Blair during his tenure as UK prime minister. Additionally, he reported on significant events such as the death of Princess Diana and the 7/7 London terror attack in 2005. Duncan McLarty, executive editor of BBC Radio Berkshire, paid tribute to Hughes, remarking: “Howard had an unforgettably smooth voice, genuine warmth and a deep love of radio which was obvious to colleagues and listeners.” Andrew Peach, a former breakfast presenter for BBC Radio Berkshire, referred to Hughes as a “dear friend” in a post on X. Peach’s post read: “He made every word, every syllable, count and was the master of morning bulletins.” Steve Penk, who previously hosted Capital’s mid-morning show, posted: “He was one of the best broadcasters I’ve ever worked with, he was a joy, lightning-fast, great sense of humour and, of course, that voice.” David Lloyd, co-founder of Boom Radio, further commented that Hughes had been a “huge figure” within commercial radio. Lloyd stated: “What a voice – and he knew how to command an audience with it.”