DJ Johnnie Walker ends 58-year career with last BBC show

Walker became the presenter of Sounds of the 70s in 2009, but his career in British radio has spanned almost six decades.

After opening his last show with George Harrison’s track What Is Life, Walker then dedicated his second song, Sister Sledge’s We Are Family, to his listeners.

Walker was joined on air by his former co-presenter Sally Boazman, who said being partnered with him was the “best luck” of her life.

The pair worked together on BBC Radio 2 Drivetime for seven years from 1999.

In a pre-recorded message, Sir Rod Stewart praised Walker for helping the careers of many rock bands.

Sir Rod told Walker he had “propelled the careers of a bunch of unknown layabouts to the top of the charts, and overnight fame and everything that goes with it”.

The rock star ended the message by making Walker an offer: “So if I do manage to get through the pearly gates, I’ll have a pint of Guinness, please mate, and guess what? I’ll pick up the tab.

“See you later, Johnny. Rock on mate, rock on.”