BBC presenter Robbie Shepherd dies aged 87 as tributes pour in for the ‘legend of broadcasting’
BBC presenter Robbie Shepherd has passed away and tributes are pouring in for the ‘legend of broadcasting’.
Mr Shepherd who was born in Dunecht in Aberdeenshire died last night at the age of 87.
He was best known for presenting BBC Radio Scotland’s Take the Floor for 35 years, which BBC Scotland director Steve Carson described as a ‘fixture’ of Scottish cultural life.
Mr Carson said he was ‘desperately sad’ to hear the news.
‘Our thoughts are with his family and friends in Aberdeen, and the wider family of radio listeners all around the world who loved hearing his Doric voice and his enthusiasm and passion for the music he so dearly loved,’ he added.
Retiring in 2015, Mr Shepherd was replaced by Gary Innes.
Mr Innes described him as a ‘legend’. He added: ‘After 35 years he left with such grace and dignity. I said to him: “Robbie, I have no idea how on Earth I am ever going to fill your boots”. And he just said with that lovely Doric accent: “Ach Gary, ye ken I’m only a size five, you’ll be fine”.
He is survived by his wife Esma, son Gordon and grandchildren.
