This week, British radio lost one of its icons. Steve Wright, master of the microphone at the BBC for more than three decades, passed away suddenly at the age of 69. Steve Wright in the Afternoon (SWITA) was a national phenomenon, reaching eight million listeners in its pomp - a popularity emphasised by its tagline "The Big Show". Wright's cheery, feature-filled broadcasts were a daily soundtrack for workplaces, cars, homes and shops across Britain. An opening jingle would announce the show was “now playing everywhere”. It was not much of an exaggeration. On many radio stations, the afternoon slot is the most dull of the day, a boring bridge between the higher-rating mid-morning and drivetime programmes. But for 23 years on BBC Radio 2, Steve Wright in the Afternoon was an explosion of colour, comedy and camaraderie. Wright's sunny disposition, warm wit, pursuit of perfection and effortless ability to marshal the various elements of his busy programme were what mad...