Walker’s last episode of The Rock Show aired on 25 October, and his final episode of Sounds of the 70s was broadcast on 27 October.
At the end of his final show, Walker said: “[It’s] going to be very strange not to be on the wireless anymore. Also, by the same token, life will be slightly less of a strain really, trying to find the breath in order to do the programmes.
“Thank you for being with me all these years and take good care of yourself and those you love and may we walk into the future with our heads held high and happiness in our hearts. God bless you.”
Walker began his radio career in 1966 on Swinging Radio England, an offshore pirate station, before moving to Radio Caroline.
He was recruited by BBC Radio 1 in 1969, then joined Radio 2 in 1997, where he remained until his retirement.
On his lunchtime Radio 1 show, which launched in 1971, he championed names like Steve Harley, Lou Reed, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles and Steely Dan.
He also spent time living in California in the 1970s before returning home in the 80s, re-joining Radio 1 in 1987. He also presented shows for Radio 5 Live.
On Radio 2, as well as Sounds of the 70s and the Rock Show, he presented a number of other programmes and documentaries over the years including the Drive show.
In 2003, Walker had chemotherapy and emergency surgery for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and told listeners at the time he had “died” three times on the operating table.
