BBC Radio Wales presenter Chris Needs has died at the age of 68 after battling a short illness.
Needs, who joined the BBC in 1996 and hosted his nightly show for 18 years, died on Sunday from a heart condition.
The presenter from Cwmafan, Neath Port Talbot, was also a classical pianist and actor and was awarded an MBE in 2005.
Posting a statement on Instagram, the radio station said: "It is with enormous sadness and regret that we confirm the death of Chris Needs MBE following a short period of ill health.
"Through his Friendly Garden, Chris brought pleasure and comfort to thousands of listeners, from all over the world, who treated him like a true friend."
Paying tribute BBC Radio Wales editor Colin Paterson said he was a "giant of Welsh radio".
Comedians Mike Bubbins and Mike Doyle have paid tribute to him on Twitter.
I hope it's not true Chris Needs has died. He was always lovely to me. His show on @BBCRadioWales was the best thing on the station and the soundtrack to many post gig late night drives back home. If it is true, big love to his family, to Gabe & to the Garden. Nos da, cariad. ❤
— Mike Bubbins (@MikeBubbins) July 27, 2020
So very sad to hear @BBCRadioWales star Chris Needs has died he will be hugely missed by so many, what a character #InTheGarden RIP https://t.co/SozIfNEPsU
— Mike Doyle (@MikeDoyleComedy) July 27, 2020
