A former soldier in the British Army who discovered his love of broadcasting while presenting programmes on the British Forces radio service BFBS and then went on to become the voice of breakfast on Hull and East Yorkshire’s biggest community radio station, Humber Wave Radio, has died after a short illness.
Chris King, 67, had adopted the on-air name of Steve Smith when he first joined the station – then known as West Hull FM – but was known affectionately by his thousands of listeners as “The Loon”.
His shows were never ordinary; they were a whirlwind of music, laughter, and eccentric features and his style carried the unmistakable influence of his radio hero, Kenny Everett.
In making an announcement following Steve’s death on Tuesday, Humber Wave director Richard Moore said “Steve’s passing leaves a space that can never truly be filled.”
He continued: “Steve’s journey was as colourful as his on‑air personality. After retiring from the Armed Forces, he brought his energy, humour, and unmistakable voice to West Hull Community Radio in the early 2020s, where he quickly became a fixture of our mid‑afternoon programming and also hosted an evening feature, ‘The Extra Slice’.
“In 2024, Steve stepped up to take on the weekday breakfast show, filling the gap left by the departing host. It was here that he truly shone, waking up Hull with his trademark wit, warmth, and unpredictability. Like his hero Kenny Everett, Steve didn’t always follow the rules of political correctness, but in a world that often feels mad, that only made him funnier, more relatable, and more loved.
“Steve Smith was more than a colleague —he was a friend, a character, and a voice that brought light to countless listeners. His laughter, his chaos, and his heart will live on in the memories of all who tuned in.”
Humber Wave Radio listeners were quick to add their appreciation and memories of Steve on the station’s Facebook page. The city’s Lord Mayor, Cheryl Payne, wrote: The Smifster now at peace but ready to rock the tunes in Heaven. He will be so missed by so many, the one and only. Such a gent with a wonderful character and his characters.”