The BBC broadcaster was also a beloved singer and songwriter.

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Legendary BBC presenter dies aged 86 as tributes pour in (Image: Getty)

BBC presenter Archie Fisher has died aged 86. The singer, songwriter and guitarist had presented BBC Radio Scotland’s Travelling Folk from 1983 to 2010. Tributes have poured in for the former broadcaster and musician following news of his death which was announced on November 2. Archie, who died on Saturday, moved to Edinburgh in 1960 and lived in the south of Scotland in his final years. In a post shared on social media, Scottish singer Barbara Dickson described him as “the great Archie Fisher”. She concluded, “My musical mentor and huge cultural icon here in Scotland. Rest in Peace, Archie. Bx”.

Hayley Valentine, director of BBC Scotland said: “Archie was a popular voice on BBC Radio Scotland for many years and an influential figure in the country’s traditional music scene. As the long-time presenter of Travelling Folk, he brought warmth and a deep musical insight to generations of listeners.

“We are saddened by the news of Archie’s passing and send our condolences to his family, friends, and former colleagues.”

Photo of Archie FISHER
Archie Fisher dead: BBC presenter and folk musician dies (Image: Getty)

Tributes also poured in from Archie’s colleagues as Scottish BBC radio and TV presenter Vic Galloway said: “I’m very sad to hear the news about the passing of Archie Fisher.

“I met him many times at the BBC over the years & he was always a real gentleman, as well as being a great broadcaster. Obviously he was a legend of Scottish folk & traditional music as well… Archie RIP.”

Scottish folk singer Iona Fyfe said: “So sad to hear of the passing of Archie Fisher. A true folk music hero and inspiration. Rest easy Archie. Thoughts with the family and all who loved Archie and his music.”

Archie Fisher
Archie Fisher dead: Tributes have poured in for the broadcaster (Image: BBC)

Donald Shaw, creative producer of Celtic Connections, said: “Archie Fisher was one of the great tradition bearers of the Scottish folk scene, and an inspiring, much-loved singer-songwriter before his success as a radio presenter.

“Songs like ‘Men of Worth’ – his powerful tribute to Scots fishing – have become part of the contemporary folk repertoire, testament to his natural writing style.

“His celebratory 80th anniversary concert at Celtic Connections a few years ago was a highlight from the festival over the years, with artists from across the world seeking a turn on the night.

“As anyone on the music scene today will tell you, he was full of wit, kindness and knowledge. He will be sorely missed.”