Dave Monk, a beloved radio host for nearly 40 years, has passed away after a battle with cancer.

According to the BBC, Monk, whose real name was David Travis, hosted programs on BBC Essex for 37 years. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2024.

Before his death on December 5, the 72-year-old announced his cancer was terminal and that he was moving into hospice care.

Robert Thompson, interim director of production at BBC Local, hailed him as “the voice of Essex,” saying he had a “remarkable impact on the county.”

“From solicitor to broadcaster, there was nothing Dave couldn’t do, and he taught us all to grab hold of every opportunity and go after it,’ Thompson added in a statement.

Monk joined BBC Essex at its launch in November 1986. Over his career, he covered significant miles

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