Dave Gray, a former BBC Radio Orkney presenter and journalist, died suddenly on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at the age of 63. He had been suffering from a short illness and passed away in an Edinburgh hospital. Gray was a well-known and beloved voice in Orkney and beyond, having worked for the station for more than 30 years.
The Tragic Death of Dave Gray
BBC Radio Orkney Star
Gray started his career as a mechanic, fixing cars in a garage across from the BBC studio in Kirkwall. He then joined BBC Radio Orkney in the late 1980s and fell in love with broadcasting. He hosted various programmes on the station, including his “Metallic Gray” show, which filled the gap of heavy metal music on the airwaves. He also interviewed many guests from the island and beyond, with his “In Conversation” programme.
Gray became a radio journalist and producer, covering news and events in Orkney and beyond. He also made regular appearances on national BBC radio, showcasing his broadcasting skills and his passion for Orkney. He became the news editor of BBC Radio Orkney in 2008 and ran the station until he retired in 2021. He briefly returned in 2024 to cover for a colleague.
Short Illness
Gray had been suffering from a short illness and was admitted to an Edinburgh hospital. He died there on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. His death was unexpected and shocking to his family, friends, colleagues and listeners. The cause of his illness and death has not been disclosed.
Tributes to Dave Gray
Heartbroken Colleagues
Gray’s colleagues at BBC Radio Orkney and BBC Scotland were heartbroken by his sudden death. They paid tribute to him on social media and on air, remembering him as a warm, witty and irreverent person, who was the heart and soul of the station. They also praised his professionalism, his talent and his dedication to local journalism and to the Orkney community.
30 Years on Air
Gray’s listeners were also devastated by his death, as they had grown accustomed to hearing his voice on the radio for over three decades. They expressed their sadness and gratitude on social media, recalling their favourite moments and memories of Gray. They also thanked him for his service, his entertainment and his friendship.
Beloved Presenter Remembered
Devastated Industry
Gray’s death was also felt by the wider broadcasting industry, as he was respected and admired by many of his peers and colleagues. Several prominent figures in the media paid tribute to him, including ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who had interviewed him shortly before his death. She said on Instagram: “Just heard the very sad news that BBC Radio Orkney legend Dave Gray has died. I saw him just two weeks ago when I was in Orkney and we had a great chat. He will be sorely missed – my sincere condolences to his family and all of his friends.”
Other broadcasters, journalists, politicians and celebrities also shared their condolences and praised Gray’s work and personality. They described him as a legend, a star, a gentleman and a friend.
Conclusion
Dave Gray was a beloved BBC Radio Orkney presenter and journalist, who died suddenly at the age of 63. He had a long and successful career in broadcasting, spanning more than 30 years. He was passionate about Orkney and local journalism, and he entertained and informed his listeners with his warm, witty and irreverent style. He was also a respected and admired figure in the media industry, and a friend to many. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, colleagues and listeners. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, humour and kindness.
