BBC Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale dies aged 83

She was the first female DJ employed by BBC Radio 1, and the longest-serving presenter on the station.

Legendary Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale has died aged 83, it's been announced.

Nightingale was the first female DJ to be employed by Radio 1 in the 1970s, and continued presenting for the station well into her 80s. She was the longest-serving DJ at Radio 1, and still holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-serving female radio presenter of all time.

A stalwart of the iconic radio station, Nightingale spent her career championing new and emerging acts, including legends such as The Clash, Talking Heads and Siouxse and the Banshees. She died at her home in London following a short illness.

In a statement, her family says: "Annie Nightingale MBE passed away yesterday at her home in London after a short illness. Annie was a pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many. Her impulse to share that enthusiasm with audiences remained undimmed after six decades of broadcasting on BBC TV and radio globally."

"Never underestimate the role model she became. Breaking down doors by refusing to bow down to sexual prejudice and male fear gave encouragement to generations of young women who, like Annie, only wanted to tell you about an amazing tune they had just heard.

"Watching Annie do this on television in the 1970s, most famously as a presenter on the BBC music show The Old Grey Whistle Test, or hearing her play the latest breakbeat techno on Radio One is testimony to someone who never stopped believing in the magic of rock 'n' roll. A celebration of her life will take place in the Spring at a Memorial Service.

"The family request privacy at this time. Alex, Lucy, Ollie and Will."

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