BBC Radio Guernsey presenter John Randall has died at the age of 68 following a short illness. For more than 25 years, Randall was a beloved voice across the Channel Islands, known for his warmth, humor, and dedication to community causes.
A Career Spanning Decades
Randall’s broadcasting journey began in 1988 on Offshore Radio. Four years later, he helped establish Island FM, the island’s first full-time commercial station. In 2001, he joined BBC Radio Guernsey, where he presented the station’s first dedicated local afternoon show. More recently, he hosted evening programs on Mondays and Fridays, as well as a Sunday afternoon show broadcast across Guernsey and Jersey.
Community at Heart
Reflecting on his career during his 25th anniversary with the BBC, Randall said his work brought him closer to the community. “I love raising money for charities. I love helping people, I really do. It’s meeting people as well and putting smiles on faces which is what I enjoy doing,” he shared. His generosity extended far beyond the studio. Randall helped raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for charities, including BBC Children in Need, and regularly supported local causes by hosting events and auctions.
Colleagues Remember His Kindness
BBC Guernsey executive producer Michelle Danielle described Randall as “one of a kind.” She recalled how he once arranged a washing machine delivery for her after casually mentioning she needed one. “He loved nothing more than helping people,” she said. “At work he embraced the role of being our ambassador in the community. A huge part of us will always be missing.”
BBC Guernsey’s Isla Blatchford praised his ability to inspire others to give. “His generosity with his time, support and enthusiasm proved invaluable,” she said, noting he helped her raise nearly £40,000 for charities over two decades. Stephanie Marshall, senior head of content production for the West, South West and Channel Islands, remembered Randall as “a kind and generous man, who would light up any room.”
A Legacy Beyond Broadcasting
Randall’s impact stretched beyond radio. Offshore Radio co-founder Richard Bird recalled giving him his first radio gig after he worked as a mobile DJ. “With Offshore Radio, John became the first voice heard on commercially-based radio in the Channel Islands,” Bird said. “It all came so easy to him and he did things his way – ‘Randall the Vandal’ we called him.” Friends also remembered his humor and charisma. Darren Ogier, who knew Randall through Guernsey’s bar billiards scene, said: “He was a chirpy chap who always had a story to tell. He’d just lighten up the room as soon as he walked in.”
A Voice That Will Be Missed
For more than a quarter of a century, Randall’s distinctive style became part of daily life in the Channel Islands. His colleagues, friends, and listeners agree: his generosity, laughter, and voice will be deeply missed.
