Chris Needs
Remembering our friend Chris Needs, a giant of Welsh broadcasting who kept the nation company every weeknight.
It is with enormous sadness and regret that Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Wales confirmed on July 27th, 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 Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Wales are with Chris’s husband Gabe, his family and his many friends at this time.
Mal Pope and many others will be paying tribute to Chris in 'The Friendly Garden'.
Chris Needs was born in Cwmafan near Port Talbot in 1954.
Before joining Radio Wales, Chris was a star presenter for six years for independent Welsh radio. He built up a large and loyal following with his cheerful one-to-one style. In 1996's Radio 'Oscars' he won the coveted Sony Silver Award for Best Regional Presenter.
Chris joined Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Wales along with a host of other new presenters in August 1996, as part of a re-vamp of the schedules.
He began by co-presenting the mid-morning magazine programme, 'Live Time', and an edition of the afternoon phone-in show, The Network.
For 18 years Chris brought us his own brand of late night music and chat with The Friendly Garden Programme, where he formed an on-air club of listeners. All listeners are members of The Garden and each has a membership number.
In 2005, Chris Needs was awarded the MBE. On 22 June 2005, he collected this award from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. Some of the Garden Club members were even there with him to celebrate his momentous day.
Paying tribute to Chris , Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio Wales editor Colin Paterson said he was a "giant of Welsh radio".
Mr Paterson said: "Chris was an amazing character - a one off and an all-round entertainer. A giant of Welsh radio, he spent years with the commercial sector before moving to the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ, where he broadcast in both Welsh and English, on television and radio.
"His contribution to Radio Wales can't be underestimated, not least in recent months when he has provided comfort and companionship to our listeners."
Mr Paterson added: "For almost 20 years, the Friendly Garden has brought people together from across Wales and the world, from every walk of life.
"The ability to bring people together was one of his many strengths and I know the Garden team, along with all of us at Radio Wales will miss him. Our thoughts are with Chris's husband Gabe, his family and his friends at this incredibly sad time."
