BBC Radio and Capital Breakfast show's Howard Hughes dies after short illness

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The broadcasting world is mourning the loss of Howard Hughes, a Capital Breakfast Show and BBC Radio star.

Hughes, who was known for his work alongside Chris Tarrant on the morning radio programme, passed away following a short illness, as confirmed by his webmaster.

As the first voice that greeted listeners in 1992 when Global's Capital Breakfast launched, Hughes became a familiar and comforting presence to many.

Adam Cornwell, in a statement, expressed deep sorrow: "It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Howard Hughes, the beloved and respected creator of The Unexplained with Howard Hughes and a dear friend who sadly died a week ago."

In a heartfelt audio tribute, he added: "He wasn't simply a presenter, he was a friend to those who tuned in, a guide who journeyed with them through the unknown and, for long time listeners, a constant through life's good and bad times. Howard will be forever missed but never forgotten."

Throughout his illustrious career, Hughes had the opportunity to interview an array of celebrities, including iconic musicians David Bowie and Lionel Richie, and high-profile figures such as former Prime Minister Tony Blair. He also reported on significant events like the tragic death of Princess Diana in 1997 and the 7/7 London terror attacks in 2005, reports the Mirror.

Following the announcement of his death, tributes have been flooding in from fans and colleagues alike. Broadcaster Steve Penk shared his condolences on X, saying: "Such sad news about Howard Hughes, he was a wonderful broadcaster and a nice man, I will always remember Howard with great affection, many laughs, special memories. That voice."

Sandy Warr expressed her sorrow as she shared: "such sad news to hear of the loss of #HowardHughes - my career overlapped with his countless times and I remember chatting with him when he was taking over from me as Chris Tarrant's news reader - such a lovely lovely man and a HUGE voice -- thoughts with everyone who knew him."

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David Lloyd also paid homage, saying: "Farewell to Howard Hughes. So, so sad to hear the news today of this huge figure in commercial radio. What a voice - and he knew how to command an audience with it. Here's an hour in his company, telling his story - alone."

Stuart Armour joined in with a tribute and a nostalgic photo: "So sad to hear about @HughesOnAir was a real gentleman and a pleasure to work with, during Covid when we were allowed back out. I spent the day with him and it was great fun. R.I.P Howard."

Andrew Peach reminisced with a photo of Howard, writing: "I am so sad to hear that my friend Howard Hughes has died. Howie was proud to have been @bbcberkshire's first breakfast presenter in 92 but I was prouder when he came back to be part of my show. He made every word - every syllable - count and was the master of morning bulletins.."

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