John Peel 1939-2004
John Peel OBE, legendary Radio 1 and Radio 4 presenter, has died suddenly on holiday in Peru.
It has been confirmed that John died from a heart attack last night - he leaves behind his wife Sheila and four children.
The veteran broadcaster had worked for Radio 1 since its launch in 1967.
Radio 1 Controller Andy Parfitt said:
"John Peel was a broadcasting legend. I am deeply saddened by his death as are all who work at Radio 1."
"John's influence has towered over the development of popular music for nearly four decades and his contribution to modern music and music culture is immeasurable."
"Hopeful bands all over the world sent their demo tapes to John knowing that he really cared. His commitment and passion for new music only grew stronger over the years."
"In fact, when I last saw him he was engaged in a lively debate with his fellow DJs over the state of new music today. He will be hugely missed."
"John Peel was a unique broadcaster whose influence on Radio 1 could be felt from its very first days. He nurtured musicians and listeners alike introducing them to new sounds."
"His open minded approach to music was mirrored by his equally generous approach to his audience when he went to Radio 4 to present Home Truths."
"He had a remarkable rapport with all his listeners. Everyone at BBC Radio is devasted by the news. John is simply irreplaceable. Our hearts go out to Sheila and his children."
James Dean Bradfield, lead singer of the Manic Street Preachers, paid tribute to Peel.
He told BBC News Online: "It was because of him I got to hear some of the most obscure but influential music I ever heard.
"He was a lifeline to hearing music I would never have heard otherwise. The service he provided was getting to hear music that you couldn't buy in Cardiff. He was a portal to a whole new world."
The Undertones' bassist Michael Bradley, whose band recorded Peel's favourite ever song 'Teenage Kicks', spoke of his shock on learning of his death.
He told the BBC: "He was a very funny, very warm man and we will always be grateful for what he did for The Undertones.
"Personally, I find it incredible what he did for the band and we always got huge pride out of the fact that he said 'Teenage Kicks' was his favourite single."