Janice Long death news – New Order’s Peter Hook calls BBC radio DJ ‘great friend’ as ex-Top of the Pops host dies at 66

Former Top of The Pops host and BBC Radio presenter Janice Long passed away on Christmas day at the age of 66 following a short illness.

Agent, Nigel Forsyth, confirmed the sad news in a statement, detailing she had suffered from a “short illness” before she passed away surrounded by family.

Tributes have continued to pour in from fans and the music industry around the world.

Comedian Les Dennis said he would “miss our chats”, adding that Miss Long was a “shining and innovative talent”.

Merseyside band The Coral said: “She was great to us and like the best broadcasters, talking to her was always easy, like catching up with a friend. RIP Janice.”

Peter Hook, of Joy Division and New Order, also paid tribute, saying she was “always a great friend and a great supporter of our music… she was a lovely lady and a pleasure to be around”.

Read our Janice Long live blog for the latest news and updates…