Radio Tyneside is sad to report the death of its patron Mike Neville MBE.Mike had been involved with the organisation since the early 1970s starting first as Vice President moving to the position of President before two years ago becoming Patron and was well known in the region as the main presenter of ITV Tynetees regional news programme, prior to having been at the BBC presenting their regional news programme for over 20 years.
Throughout his years having been involved with Radio Tyneside he had shown a great interest in the hospital broadcasting in general. During the 1970s and 80s he used to present a present a live Christmas Eve programme in which he interviewed many personalities including Bob Hope, George Burns and Bing Crosby.
Dave Nicholson, Chairman of Radio Tyneside said “We are all very sad to hear of the death of Mike. He supported the station in many ways and apart from his Christmas Eve programmes would support many of our fundraising activities. I met Mike back in 1973 And it was him who introduced me to the station and we have remained great friends over the years. Last year, to celebrate his 80th birthday I recorded a special programme in which many of his colleagues past and present took part sending him birthday wishes. He will be greatly missed.”
Mike died last month following a short battle with cancer.
Pictured: Dave Nicholson with Mike Neville and his wife Pam taken earlier this year at the Royal television Society awards when Mike was presented with a special award to celebrate his 80th birthday.