Former commercial radio executive Eddie Startup has died at the age of 77.
Eddie started his radio carrer at LBC, and spent many years around the sector at stations including Invicta Radio, Chiltern Radio, Galaxy 101 and GWR.
He then went on to establish Creative Training where he inspired a new generation of aspiring radio and TV executives across the UK and around the world.
During its 15 years, Eddie took Creative Training to Russia, Ukraine, South East Asia, Bosnia, Hungary and many more besides.
Friend and former colleague David Tighe paid this tribute: “Anyone who has worked alongside Eddie will remember his infectious enthusiasm and passion for radio, as a salesperson a manager and trainer.
“At the heart of everything Eddie did was his family. He rarely missed an opportunity to talk about his beautiful wife Roz, their children Stuart & Joanne, and more recently his grandsons Henry & Samuel.
“There are many media colleagues that were inspired, helped and mentored by Eddie and we know how much that meant to him.
“On a personal level, Eddie helped me out when I needed it most and I will never forget his trust, generosity and kindness. At a difficult time in my career, he stepped in and gave me his entire set of work presentations and international contacts and within weeks I was working in places like Azerbaijan and Georgia.
“Eddie was semi-retired at this point and all he wanted in return was to hear the positive stories of the difference we were making in the world – a truly selfless act which I will never forget. I can’t do this act of kindness the justice it deserves here but it was one that was typical of Eddie.
“We spoke every other week for the last 10 years and even when he was in hospital, he was still trying to help me with ideas and suggestions about promotions and sales. Eddie – I will miss you mate.”
RIP Eddie Startup. Inspirational radio sales & promotions guy. Worked with him at Invicta, Chiltern & Galaxy. A thoroughly nice man who was kind and generous to everyone he met. Proud to have known him – and nicked some of his clever promo ideas!! Thinking of Roz & family.
pic.twitter.com/RmTgoze0ye
— Paul Chantler (@PaulChantler) December 27, 2022
Just heard that radio sales and promotions genius Eddie Startup has passed away
I’ll never forget the wonderful knowledge you passed on to me….and your quirky thumb movement when you crossed your arms
Rest in peace friend
X— Chris Marsden Voice Actor
(@ChrisJMarsden) December 27, 2022
This story first appeared on radiotoday.co.uk