Tributes have been left for a much-loved hospital radio volunteer who has recently passed away.

Ralph Chadwick, 90, passed away on the afternoon of March 13 after battling a short illness.

He spent the last 22 years of his life volunteering at the radio station, where he co-presented a show that specifically focused on Big Band music.

The former flight engineer was also an avid fan of classical tunes.

A statement on the Stoke Mandeville Hospital Radio Facebook page reads: “With classical music playing in his room, he is now at rest.

“We will miss him very much.”

His colleagues at SMHR (Stoke Mandeville Hospital Radio), have left many touching messages for the larger-than-life character.

Dez Kay said: “Oh such dreadful news.

“A man with a wonderful sense of humour whenever we chatted, and a real passion for classical music which he described so engagingly on his shows.

“Ralph, may you rest in peace.”

Voiceover artist, Any Robinson, said: “Oh my. He was a goodun. RIP Ralph mate.”

Jonathan Moloney, who also worked with Ralph, added: “He was always a delight to be about and will be very much missed! RIP! “

Martin Kinch, who is Stoke Mandeville Hospital Radio’s longest serving member, added: “Sad news - RIP Ralph, a long time member of SMHR who dedicated many hours presenting programs for the patients and staff at the hospital.”

Dave Gamage, who also volunteered at SMHR with Ralph, said: “Sorry to read this news about Ralph’s passing.

“He was a dedicated Hospital Radio member for many years. He was previously at Wycombe Hospital Radio (closer to his home village).

“In the early 2000’s he phoned me at the SMHR studios and asked to come over & join us on a then Sunday afternoon request show.

“Not long after that Ralph transferred over to continue his long-serving ‘volunteering duties’ with us at SMHR.

Rest in peace, Ralph.”

Before his move into amateur radio, the popular volunteer spent over 30 years working at both British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

He was also a member of the RAF.

Following his retirement in the late 1990s/early 2000s, he was ‘faced with how to occupy’ his own time, so he decided to sign up as a member of the Wycombe Hospitals Broadcasting Association.

He spent five years in South Buckinghamshire, before spending time with City & Hemel Hospital Radio.

A move to Stoke Mandeville Hospital Radio followed in 2002, where he remained until his passing this month.

A book of condolence has been created in Ralph’s memory.

To sign it, visit https://ralphchadwick.muchloved.com.