James Stannage, the legendary Manchester radio host known for his 'no nonsense' late-night phone-in shows, has died at the age of 76. His son Darren confirmed the news on Monday, stating that Stannage passed away peacefully at Manchester Royal Infirmary after a year-long battle with cancer.
Stannage rose to fame in the mid-1970s with his distinctive style on Piccadilly Radio, later moving to Key 103 where he remained until 2005. His 'savage' approach to callers once led to the station being fined £125,000 by broadcast regulators.
In a Facebook post, Darren Stannage described his father as “someone who meant so much to so many people in Manchester” and a “legend in Manchester”. He added that Stannage was listening to music and “surrounded by people that loved him” at the time of his death.
Former colleague Paul Smith, who worked alongside Stannage on Piccadilly Gold, paid tribute: “James was a true pro and always had time for you. As a young presenter, he offered advice and words of wisdom. I will miss him.”
