BBC Radio Wales legend Chris Needs dies after a short period of ill health

BBC legend Chris Needs has died aged 68 after a brief period of ill health.

He will go down in history for his role as a Welsh radio presenter for the BBC.

The radio personality died of a heart condition on Sunday following a short fight with his health.

Tributes have been swirling on social media for the BBC star.

A statement released by BBC Radio Wales said: "It is with enormous sadness and regret that we confirm the death of Chris Needs MBE following a short period of ill health.

"Through his Friendly Garden, Chris brought pleasure and comfort to thousands of listeners, from all over the world, who treated him like a true friend.

"The thoughts of everyone at BBC Radio Wales are with Chris’s husband Gabe, his family and his many friends at this time."

Chris hosted nightly on BBC Radio Wales for 18 years.

His cheerful style garnered him a loyal following during his time in the limelight.

During his career with the BBC, he started hosting The Friendly Garden Programme in 2002.

Before the BBC, he grafted his experience for six years on an independent Welsh radio.

Chris had a number of awards to his name.

The radio sensation lifted the Sony Silver Award for Best Regional Presenter in the radio equivalent of the Oscars in 1996.

Almost two decades later, he bagged an MBE from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace in 2005.

Originally Chris was from Cwmafan, Neath Port Talbot.

Broadcaster Kev Johns MBE paid tribute to the "unique talent" and "kind man" following the death of the presenter.

He wrote: "Sad to hear the news that Chris Needs has passed away When it looked like things weren't going to go well at Swansea Sound just weeks ago Chris was the 1st to call with support and kind words Welsh radio has lost a unique talent, life has lost a kind man Love and prayers to Gabe."

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