POPULAR LOCAL RADIO BROADCASTER AND ACTOR DIES
- Sat 6th Aug 2005
Press Release issued by Chichester Hospital Radio about one of its most popular presenters - Hayling Island resident Ray Willoughby who passed away on Thursday 4th August.
Radio broadcaster and actor Ray Willoughby finally lost his brave battle against cancer on Thursday 4th August when he died peacefully in his sleep. He was also a member of several local organisations including Hayling Island Amateur Dramatic Society (HIADS) taking many roles in their product. Chichester and Hayling Island are mourning the loss of a popular character in both areas
He had been battling against the disease for a number of years but continued to give his radio audiences, particularly those listening to him on Chichester Hospital Radio, much delight and good humour.
Although in his seventies and ill, he continued to visit the wards every Friday making staff and patients laugh whilst collecting music requests for his request show with fellow presenters Louisa Gibbons and Steve Freegard.
He was also a long standing member of the Hayling Island Amateur Dramatic Society (HIADS) appearing in many productions staged by the company. He also appeared at the Chichester Festival Theatre in a number of small supporting roles.
Pete Crew - Head of Programmes at Chichester Hospital Radio said, "Ray was unique. A terrific guy who made time for everyone. Always with a laugh, a joke and a bag of sweets. Everyone knew when Ray was on the wards. You could hear the laughter right down the corridors. He made light of his illness always preferring to cheer someone else up. We will miss him greatly."
Ray is survived by his widow Jenny.
By forum user, HIbot
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