Radio presenter Stephen Clements dies aged 47
Popular Northern Ireland radio presenter Stephen Clements has died suddenly at the age of 47.
The married father-of-two had long been a familiar voice on the airwaves, having presented Q Radio’s breakfast show until his move to BBC Radio Ulster last summer.
That was something he described as having landed his “dream” job.
BBC Northern Ireland director Peter Johnston confirmed the news on Tuesday.
“We are sorry to bring you the sad news of the passing of our colleague Stephen Clements,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with Stephen’s family, friends and colleagues, at this difficult time.”
In a poignant post on Twitter, Stephen’s brother Gavin said simply: “My inspiration, my hero, my brother, I am broken!”
Many tributes have been paid by colleagues throughout the media industry and by listeners who enjoyed his radio shows over the years.
Famous faces, from actress Bronagh Waugh to sports stars like Carl Frampton and politicians from across the spectrum, expressed their shock and sadness.
DUP leader Arlene Foster said: “It is devastating news and I know many people right across Northern Ireland will feel that today, I certainly do.
“And I just want to remember his wife and his beautiful little children in my prayers and I hope that everyone will reflect and remember them tonight.”
Sinn Féin deputy leader Michelle O’Neill said she was deeply shocked and saddened, adding: “His radio shows on BBC Radio Ulster and Q Radio brought his legion of listeners joy through his music and humour.”
Fellow broadcaster Eamonn Holmes said on Twitter: “I’ll miss you, your listeners will miss you. My heartfelt condolences to your family.
“A lesson for us all to live life because we don’t know how long it will last. Sad, sad times. How can you be gone?”
Stephen was also well-known among local ice hockey fans, as a former game night announcer at Belfast Giants games.
Head coach and friend Adam Keefe said the news was tough to take.
“Belfast has lost its voice today – every morning I’d be listening to him,” Keefer said.
“I think everybody’s just feeling devastation right now and our thoughts are with his young family and what they must be going through.”