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Special: John Peel 1939 - 2004



On 25 October 2004, John Peel died of a heart attack whilst on holiday in Peru, with his wife Sheila.� The news was announced the next day and left fans and audiences of his radio shows shocked and astounded with his untimely death.� John had a regular slot on Radio 1 and presented Home Truths on Radio 4.

John was one of the original line up of disc jockeys when Radio 1 started on 1967.� He introduced new and old music into the lives of his listeners and kept them entertained with after-thought of the show.� He was also to thank for the new wave of punk and eclectic rock that swept the airwaves during his reign.

Many people across the nation, of all ages (young and old) would stay up late to listen to�Home Truths�and have their weekly dose of John, which was never enough and kept them hanging on for more until�the next week's show.

In 1998, John was awarded an OBE for his services to broadcasting and had two dedicated theme nights on the BBC to celebrate his 60th birthday in August 1999.

His all time favourite�was 'Teenage Kicks'�by The Undertones.� He often told the story hearing ?Teenage Kicks? for the first time. He was driving in his car listening to the song on a demo tape. He was so overcome by the tune that he pulled onto the side of the road to have a cry.

John played a big part in the daily lives of many people, his family, friends, colleagues and fans.He will be missed by all and will remain a memory in the hearts and minds of everyone.



Frontman Hawkins injured in fight



Justin Hawkins has sustained injuries�to his right hand after it was cut in a fight.� He apparently fell into a window after being punched in the face.
It is possible that Hawkins may be unable to play guitar for a number of�months, according to news reports.
He was operated on at the Princess Grace Hospital near Harley Street, where doctors spent hours trying to repair severed tendons.� It is highly unlikely that he will be able to play on the sold out winter tour and it is possible that a stand-in guitarist may have to be hired.