Wogan presents final show

Radio legend Terry WoganÂ’s show saw an emotional coda...

16:05 18 December 2009

Radio legend Sir Terry Wogan has presented his final Radio 2 breakfast show, bowing out after 27 years.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown paid an unexpected on-air tribute to the DJ and famed television presenter, saying he had "shaped the popular imagination of British viewers and listeners"

Brown paid tribute: "Five decades at the very top of British broadcasting is a towering, indeed an unparalleled achievement.

"As you move on from Wake Up To Wogan, I wanted to let you know how very dearly you'll be missed and how delighted we all are you'll be returning with another venture before too long."

Brown's comments were aired during the 08:00 news bulletin to the apparent surprise of Wogan, who responded: "How dare you slip that across me. Are you all trying to make me cry?"

As the programme came to a close, the 71-year-old veteran presenter said: "The years together with you have not only been a pleasure but a privilege.

"You've allowed me to share your lives with you. When you tell me how important I've been in your lives, it's fairly moving. You've been every bit as important in mine.

"If anybody embodies the generous, warm spirit of this country it's you, my listeners.

"Now, I'm not going to pretend that this is not a sad day - you can probably hear it in my voice. I'm going to miss the laughter and the fun of our mornings together.

"I know you're going to welcome Chris Evans with the same generosity of spirit that you've always shown me.

"I'm going to miss you - till we're together again in February. Have a happy Christmas. Thank you. Thank you for being my friend."