Doubly Dedicated – Guests Turn Out for ‘Gilly’

‘Dedicate’ has two meanings – to stick at something for a long time and to nominate someone or something for an honour.

Last night’s celebration for the final late show by legendary broadcaster, John ‘Gilly’ Gillmore, at the BBC Radio Lancashire theatre, brought both to mind.

Behind the mic for 38 years, the last 18 at the Blackburn-based station with the BBC, John has been a friend to local listeners for decades. Starting out at Red Rose Radio in Preston and The Bay in Morecambe, he certainly deserves to be honoured for keeping us Lancastrians company all these years.

Highlights of the show included memories of an interview with the late, great comedian, Rik Mayall, amusing ‘Maggot Racing’ commentary and conversation about the Appley Bridge meteorite strike with author and speaker, Russell Parry.

BBC North West Tonight presenter, Steve Saul, who had his first on air opportunities with John at Red Rose Gold, also relived his early days in the studio, when guests at the party chanted John’s instruction from back in the day: “Stevie Saul, line up that call!”

Kenland’s Emma Starrs had the chance to get John’s thoughts on the evening – as unpretentious as ever, he simply paid tribute to the many people who came along:

“Thanks to everyone who came along to celebrate with me. I’ve met some lovely people over my years in radio and people have turned out for me tonight in horrible weather outside.”

We can’t wait to hear more from Gilly as he starts a new chapter – one thing is for sure, that familiar voice won’t be quiet for long!