Tributes have been paid to popular BBC Wiltshire presenter Sandy Martin, who died after losing his battle against a brain tumour.

Mr Martin, 53, who lived in Swindon, died on March 17. He was married to Sarah and they had two-year-old twins. Mr Martin also had a grown-up daughter from a previous marriage.

Mr Martin moved from his native Scotland to Wiltshire and made his name as a nightclub DJ at Swindon’s Brunel Rooms. He joined BBC Wiltshire in 1998, hosting a range of shows including the World Tour of Wiltshire, which visited the entire county, often broadcasting from north and west Wiltshire.

His colleague Shaun Hodgetts said: “He created a special mood on the radio with his Megamixes and Smoocheroonies.

“He fronted the Milk Race all over the country to prepare the crowds for the arrival of the cyclists.

“Sandy was the most positive person you could ever wish to meet. He was so popular that any walk down the High Street would seemingly take forever as he’d keep being stopped for a catch-up.

“He was inspiring to the next generation of broadcasters, with young contributors to his weekend show being very well schooled at the beginning of their careers. He was trusted and loyal, so proud of his family.”

BBC Wiltshire has been inundated with calls from listeners paying tribute to Mr Martin, and almost 100 people have signed a Book of Condolence in their offices in Old Town, Swindon.

Over 1,200 messages have also been posted on a Facebook condolence page, many talking about the fact Mr Martin had time for everybody from all walks of life, and recalling his smile, engaging personality and contribution to local life.