Legendary BBC Radio Cumbria presenter Richard Nankivell has passed away at the age of 75, following a brief illness.

The beloved broadcaster's death was announced by the station via their Facebook page, accompanied by a touching photograph of the star.

They wrote: "We are very sad to announce the death of one of BBC Radio Cumbria's best-known presenters, Richard Nankivell, who has died aged 75 after a short illness. He will be remembered fondly by listeners across Cumbria and beyond."

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Heartbroken fans quickly flooded the comments section with emotional tributes to the broadcasting icon. "So sorry, very sad news. I listened to him every night on the radio. One of the best presenters. Radio Cumbria isn't the same anymore," one person wrote, reports the Express.

Another reflected: "So sad to hear this. I remember Richard from way back, in the 1970s, he worked on BFBS (Forces Radio) with Richard Astbury, they were a great pair. They wouldn't get away today with some of the things they got up to then RIP Nankers old horse."

A third listener praised: "He was an amazingly talented and totally one-to-one broadcaster who was a great member of the team. Very sad."

Another devoted fan expressed: "Best presenter I've ever listened to. Loved waking up with him on the morning show. Sincere sympathy and condolences to all his family and colleagues."

A fifth tribute read: "Such sad news, Richard was a legend of a presenter, he made you feel as if he was talking to you alone. Condolences and prayers to all his family and friends."

Meanwhile, a sixth person shared: "Fine broadcaster, very professional, informative, educational and amusing at different times. Condolences to his family and friends."

Hailing from Bideford, North Devon, Richard had trained as a livestock auctioneer with his family business after leaving school, but in 1972, he decided he wanted to explore the world.

He joined The British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS), presenting and producing programmes overseas for HM Forces, which took him to Cyprus, Gibraltar, Germany, Belize, The Falklands and the Gulf.

He later acknowledged an unusual claim to fame was that he "did commentary for BFBS for four consecutive years in four different countries at The Eurovision Song Contest."

After 20 years abroad, he returned to the UK in 1992 and joined BBC Radio Cumbria. He remained there until his retirement in April 2015.