Dr Wally RIP

JackDanielsU | 16:02 Sat 21st Oct 2006 | Radio

3 Answers

Paul Walters, long-time producer of Sir Terry Wogan's Radio 2 breakfast show, has died in hospital aged 59 following a long illness.
Walters, known to millions as Dr Wally, joined the BBC's film department in 1974, moving to Radio 2 in 1977.

He is credited with introducing artists such as Katie Melua and Eva Cassidy to the British public.

"To know Paul Walters was to love him. His character was in his smile," said Sir Terry.

"He was charming and he was relaxed, almost to the point of sleep sometimes. He was the self-styled 'best putter in the world' and he was also the best music programmer in the world. Millions of listeners will mourn the loss of a friend. Me too," he added.

Lesley Douglas, Controller for BBC Radio 2, said: "Paul Walters was a uniquely talented producer. He loved radio, music and Wake Up To Wogan.

"In return he was loved by every individual who knew him in Radio 2, and by millions of listeners to the station. His relationship with Terry Wogan produced magical radio which will be remembered with affection for years to come," she added.

Walters, who first worked with Wogan in 1980, produced the award-winning Wake Up To Wogan show until his illness was diagnosed in November 2005. He continued to be involved with choosing the music for the programme during his illness.

He also worked on many other Radio 2 shows over the years, including You The Night And The Music, Nightride, The John Dunn Show, Ed Stewart and David Jacobs.

Walters, who grew up in Hertfordshire, leaves a brother and sister.