Remembered him from my BBC Radio Manchester days - as I struggled to get a foothold in Radio & voice overs.

He had a hearty laugh, lovely sense of humour and impressive voice. Met him again when I worked for Granada tv.
May his soul rest in peace
Tunde Nzegwu formerly Jim Lakeson, Old friend, 30/05/2011

I was in the same form as Peter when he was at Newcastle RGS and can recall his patience when he decided to take me under his wing when we were all required to take boxing. He was much more skilled than most of us and it was probably thanks to his guidence that I won my one and only bout! In 1949 Peter took part in a school play - "Bridgewater Castle" by L.du Garde Peach. A review in the school magazine said"...P.K.Wheeler also deserves mention for his character sketch of Old Yeo." A sign of things to come!

My sincere condolences to the family.
David Wedderburn, School Friend, 24/01/2011

I have such fond memories of Peter from my childhood. I will always think of him laughing and joking. My mum used to say she always thought of Peter sitting on the tiny little bench in the Kindergarten building at Lady Barn House School, tying Nicholas's shoe laces on his first day of school. I remember him working on the music for the Maypole dancing at Lady Barn, and trying not to laugh at us children making a terrible mess of the ribbons!

My condolences to Pat, Nick, Jo, Alistair, Chris, and all Peter's grandchildren.
Shona Lazin (Quin), Family Friend, 22/12/2010

I've just learnt of Peter's death and am truly sorry as myself and my late father Peter Caldwell (ex Production designer BBC and Granada) have great memories of working with Peter. I worked with Peter on the BBC management videos produced at what was ICI Alderley Edge and remember being inspired by his unwavering professionalism coupled with a great sense of humour that put everyone at ease - even terrified soon-to-be interviewed corporate bods!
Adrian Caldwell, Production Designer, 22/11/2010

THEY told me, Peter Wheeler, they told me you were dead,
They brought me bitter news to hear and bitter tears to shed.
I wept as I remember'd how often you and I
Had tired the sun with talking and sent him down the sky.

And now that thou art lying, my dear old Cheshire guest
A handful of grey ashes, long, long ago at rest,
Still are thy pleasant voices, thy nightingales, awake;
For Death, he taketh all away, but them he cannot take.

With apologies to Heraclitus by William Johnson Cory (1823–1892)
Ant & Chrissie, to a much loved friend, 12/07/2010

with deepest sympathy to peter an dianna an family and your gran children a lovely man peter i built the steps to peters office at wood cottage also worked at wood cottage gardening time to time about 20 yrs ago i last spoke to peter about 2yrs ago he commented and said roy the steps are still used regulary and asked could i prune back the beuitiful rose next to the cottage peter a true gentleman sadly missed dianna an family take care an god bless fond memories royston utkinton tarporley cheshire
royston harley , gardener an friend, 25/06/2010

I last saw Peter the evening before he left for good. He cruised up the lane in his car, heading for home, and, seeing me gardening, paused and wound down the window for a chat. We gleefully dissected the new Coalition, in the way that only Peter could. Then he drove on, pausing to collect the post and hitch the garden-waste bin to the towing hook, and we neighbours chuckled as it bumped and bounced up towards Wood Cottage and out of sight. He really did disappear into the sunset.
I am well aware of all Peter’s professional attributes, but here in Gooseberry Lane he will be remembered especially as a considerate and caring man – though he could spit venom with the best of them when someone fell short of his professional standards. There have been many elderly residents of this lane, including my late father, who would not have been able to enjoy their twilight years in their own homes for so long without Di and Peter’s constant care and attention.
Peter, we will miss you so. We just hope we can repay a little of all you gave us by reaching out to Di, Leonie, Ollie and to your family.
Sue Masterman, neighbour, friend and retired foreign correspondent, 22/06/2010

I first worked with Peter in the early eighties. Always smiling. Always a self deprecating one-liner. A man who suffered many a difficult client with patience and humour. A man who was always happy to do another take to make sure you had what you wanted.
And I value some of the remarkable adlibbed outtakes over the years. A great wit. A wonderful man and a sad loss.
Phil Brice, 21/06/2010

To know Peter was booked in for a recording session was to know that there would be fun and laughter ahead. Yes, on occasion, he might have showed up a little late but after a cup of coffee and an anecdote or two he would deliver the definitive read, whatever the nature of the script. When voicing a commercial he would raise his fore-arm and make a fist (the 'Peter Wheeler fist') before giving a perfect take.
As for out-takes and innuendo, Peter would never fail to succumb. And his laughter was the most infectious I have ever known.
Dear, kind, generous Peter. I am greatly saddened that those sessions are over.
Al Saunders, Sound Engineer, 20/06/2010

I've been thinking about Peter for many days now, wondering what to say - there are so many wonderful stories, moments, memories one could mention. Some people - a very few - make your life better by having known them; Peter was one of those rare souls. I think they threw away the mould after they made him. Oh my goodness - the spell check has just underlined the word mould (forcing me to refer to a dictionary)....how Peter would chuckle at the unintended double entendre.
Merryn Myatt, Friend, 16/06/2010

In addition to the qualities so well recorded here, Peter must be remembered as the owner of one of the most perfect and listenable voices, certainly I have ever heard.
His delivery, erudition, and command and use of the English language should be recorded and held up as a vital precedent and guide, especially for the present generations who seem fast to be losing the ability to communicate other than by thumbs and fingers.
Philip Woods, 16/06/2010

There was never a more welcome guest in our house, nor anyone better to share a bottle of wine with. Having known both Peter and Di in the Seventies, it was a delight to make contact again some ten years ago. Peter was the loveliest of men - and the greatest raconteur I've had the privilege to know - and, like so many others, I will miss him greatly.
Steven Myatt, 15/06/2010

I first worked with Peter in August 1982 - 3 days after starting work as a wet-behind-the-ears Assistant Producer at Multivision in Manchester, allegedly directing him in a V/O recording session. The reality was that Peter was teaching me what I needed to do - and continued to do so over many sessions and conferences over the next 5 years.

Always a perfect gentlemen, with hilarious stories - especially the time he had to announce the name of a race winning horse called "Hoof Hearted" - say it out loud!

We shall not see his like again and he will be sadly missed.
Michael Henderson, HGA Creative Communications, 15/06/2010

I heard today of Peter's death, via a former Client in Manchester. My first thought was of deep sadness, but like many of the comments on this site: my thoughts turned to the laughs that were always associated with a session with Peter: and I have that enduring ( and endearing...) vision of him arriving at Pluto studios wheeling his Raleigh Roadster wearing his bicycle clips...

A real professional at all times: AND he was always fun.

Happy memories.
Rowland Jones, Producer, Scriptwriter, 15/06/2010

Very sad news.

Peter had great voice, personality and was great company. I learnt lot from working alongside him as an AP/producer/director on dozens of shoots throughout the UK and in Europe in the 80's-90's.

Peter was a professional and could just turn up at the last minute and interview anyone on any subject and make it interesting, informative and enjoyable. I too remember the moments, often filming the noddies and questions, when he had us all in fits of laughter and a shoot where he played all the parts -a quizmaster and all three Euro characters in "Euroquiz 92".

I had hoped to speak to him later this year to would still hope to include some of his early Beatles I'v in a 2011 Beatles exhibition in Liverpool.

Have a Heavenly drink for me Cheers.

Jim Anderson, Colleague at BBC MTVI, 15/06/2010

Have only just caught up with the sad news of Peter's passing. But what a legacy he left behind - a bubbling personality combined with absolute professionalism - Peter had a stopwatch built into his head and could retime any piece to fit!

I will always cherish the story of his presentation to City of London Businessmen on behalf of Wigan when he played the role of "northern idiot" to their horror and then switched to his perfect RP presentation with the words "but we're not really like that up here".
Indeed a fitting epitaph - no-one WAS really like Peter but think what memories he's left behind!
Nigel Sharples, Producer, Lancashire One, 15/06/2010

Peter was one of the first and one of the most talented professional presenters we had the privelidge to work with over 25 years ago. An unassuming man with a great sense of humour and a formidable memory.
Sorely missed in the industry
David Hill, Acrobat Television, 15/06/2010

I was so sorry to hear this news. Peter was a fantastic character whose stories and jokes were uniquely his own. As a very green aspiring director in the late 80s and early 90s he carried me through various shoots and VoiceOver sessions with warmth, wit and humanity - such a great guy.
Andy Porter, Rapport Creative, 15/06/2010

A lovely man and an outstanding professional. I have many happy memories of Peter over more than 30 years and often follow the advice he gave.
Geoff Simpson, 15/06/2010

Such sad news.
It was in the late ‘70s when I first had the pleasure of meeting Peter.

From the very beginning of my career as a young sound engineer it has been such a delight to work with such a warm, courteous, humorous and highly professional individual.

It’s nearly ten minutes after the start of the session. The client is getting a bit “twitchy” because the voice-over artist had not arrived yet, and there are six scripts to get through in the hour.
You can hear some activity down the hall from Pluto reception, chattering, banter, laughter.
Peter has arrived, full of apologies as usual.
Just time for a quick chat with the client regarding the scripts, the style of “read”, then straight into the booth.
First or second take of each script, job done with time to spare.

This guy was very good.

There was always time during the sessions for one of Peter’s wonderful anecdotes, often ending with the session collapsing into helpless laughter.
He could take the edge out of the most serious, dry, corporate affair and turn it into something that was enjoyable.
A cheerful, charismatic gentleman, he treated everybody with equal respect and consideration.
He was the benchmark professional.
It was an honour and an education to have worked with him.

But most of all it was damn good fun.

He will be sadly missed.
Phil Bush, Sound Engineer, Pluto/Freelance, 15/06/2010

In common with many who have posted before I am indebted to Peter for (a) providing me with work (b) for giving me many invaluable tips on media training and (c) for his incomparable legacy of amusing anecdotes, which naturally I have enjoyed retelling, always crediting him. Sadly I could never deliver these hilarious tales with Peter's idiosyncratic dash and impeccable timing, also his many accents. I recall him telling me two or three years ago: "I love working and I will carry on." He always seemed so energetic and full of life. It seems impossible to believe that he is no longer with us. But his memory will linger long in the minds of the many people whose lives he touched.
George Dearsley, Friend and colleague, www.avantemedia.co.uk, 14/06/2010

We have such fond memories of a very kind and humourous man. He always supported our charity events for the NSPCC--we particularly remember him perched precariously in a caravan on a hill ,commentating on a horse trials held at our farm!! Our thoughts and condolences to Di and her family. He will be sadly missed.
Johnny and Wendy Clarkson Poplar Farm
Wendy Clarkson, friend, 13/06/2010

I will remember Peter as I saw him so often in recent years, perched on a chair in the kitchen at Chapel Lane swapping silly stories with Pat and the boys after the school run during the week or after watching his grandson play football on a Saturday morning. It was lovely to see him so involved with his grandchildren in a way that perhaps he was not able to do with Nick, Jo, Ali and Chris when they were younger. Peter’s passing is desperately sad but, please remember, he will never leave you. He lives on in his children and grandchildren, and how nice it was to see the family together at Peter’s thanksgiving service with Pat, his wife and partner for life, surrounded by so much love and support. The Wheeler name is in good hands.
Becky Hage, Family friend, 13/06/2010

Peter was a breath of fresh air. We always smile when thinking of him and always will.

We exchanged amusing birthday cards and each year scoured the shops to try and better the previous year so that we could hear his famous giggle on the telephone. Birthdays will not be the same again.

He will be greatly missed as a treasured friend and colleague.
Sarah and Tony Wetherall, 11/06/2010

I was sorry to hear of Mr. Wheeler's passing. His voice defined an era in British broadcasting which won't return to us. He was proof -if it were needed- that talent outlasts trends. R.I.P.
Mr. J. Arnold, London., 10/06/2010

Oh Peter this is very strange, you have always been there with a big smile and full of banter.

Noisy dinner parties with mum and dad, a cheery face (somehow!)when I descended with three children to add to Leonie's three children on afternoons at Wood Cottage, and not to mention the hilarious speech at our wedding on 'Wedding Etiquette' that jim and I (and many more) will never forget!

A great friend to my parents, a great friend to us all - You are greaty missed!
Victoria Bebb (Kinsey), Family Friend, 09/06/2010

The jungle drums just delivered me the message, a body blow. Such I suppose is the nature of our business. We bring together great talent, produce the programme move on knowing we will catch up one day and soon the days have become years and the dear friend you were going to call on, next time you passed, to share a memory or two with is gone.

Yet fortunately the memories have not they will always be there for fun, for comfort, for guidance and to share with others. So having heard the sad news this afternoon there was only one thing to do. Go onto the patio at the end of the day open a bottle of Gordon’s pour two generous glasses add ice, tonic and a slice of lemon; top a few Ritz crackers with a slice of very mature cheddar and wait patiently for the sun to slip gently over the yard arm and at that moment for Carole and I to raise our glasses to the heavens and toast the consummate genial host we all loved - dear Peter. Then to sink into the patio chairs and recant and share until dark the memories galore with each other and our eleven year old son, tales of a man who was the archetypal communication professional.

The production years at Executive Business Channel with Di and Peter as regular presenters of the one hour a week, six programmes a lunar month, have left hundreds of fond memories and great moments enough to fill a book of memories on their own so just a couple here that sum up the man.

Peter was always able to relax any one he sat in the interview chair and would draw more out of any tactical politician in a quiet inquisitive way with a constant reassuring smile than the combined pressure tactics of Jeremy Paxman and Jonathan Dimbleby could ever achieve. My case in Peter’s testimony his interviews of Michael Hesaltine at the QE II centre for us.

I can never forget those scary heart stopping times when the cast, crew, interviewees, technicians, sound engineers and production crew had all been in studio since 6am with record time scheduled for 9 am.. We have gone through all the checks and at the time I called from the gallery to the floor manager five minute to record, for Peter to be nowhere in the building. Then a few moments later to hear under the gallery a kafuffle in the corridor a thump of the coffee machine delivering a large mug, a laugh and a joke in the green room as all tensed participants are relaxed. The makeup room door opens and closes.

A moment passes (30 seconds run VT) then the studio doors burst open with a hearty greeting to all. The floor manager counts down from my time 10, 9, 8, the make up girl who had been dusting the powder from Peters collar disappears behind his desk as I direct from the gallery ‘on camera one cue Peter’. Result to have the never before read intro delivered to perfection in that rich, clear, distinctive, trustworthy voice - take one done.

Peter’s hidden talent though was to treat everyone from the director to the runner for the day with the same respect courtesy and a willingness to help them learn. He was always happy to pass on his experience and support for their benefit a team player. I saw many learn from his experience and guidance and I also learned much but especially how to make a long hard difficult day’s filming for all the assembled disciplines a fun event too. I am sure right now St Peter’s pearly studio doors are bursting open with a smile and a laugh as our Peter enters stage left.

Carole and I send our love to Di, to all his family and friends.

Geoffrey Hackett, Producer/Director/friend, 09/06/2010

I picked up the sad news in today's "Ariel", and was very sorry to hear it. I had the pleasure of working with him occasionally - and, much more often, the pleasure of his heartening and hilarious company - while doing my stuff at BBC Manchester in the late 70s and 80s. I don't think I've known anyone else who combined so much fun with so little malice.
Fraser Steel, BBC, 08/06/2010

Jenny and I have had the great good fortune to enjoy Peter and Di as neighbours and friends for over 23 years.
His unique belly laugh would echo down the valley as he opened another bottle on a summer's evening.
Peter and I were two of the last to do National Service so he played the Colonel to my squaddie. He was just such fun, always.
Amongst the many who wish to record his unstinting support is our local Tarporley War Memorial Hospital for which he and Di did so many wonderful "fund raisers".
George & Jenny Harrison, 07/06/2010

It is only now that I am in possession of a few grey hairs that I realise just how lucky I was to work with Peter in my very first job in broadcasting. I wasn't just green - I'd developed a whole new shade all of my own and it was Peter, God bless him, who made me feel that I was doing him the favour as I walked into the Radio Manchester studio at 0630. He told me I was going to make it and over the years I have drawn on the confidence he gave me many times. I can assure Jo and his family of two things: I will never forget him and I will continue to re-cycle his many hilarious stories.
Neil Hunter, 06/06/2010

We will miss Peter very much. He was always the genial host and made our visits to Wood Cottage so enjoyable. Our thoughts and prayers are with Di, Leonie and Ollie and all Peter's family.

Steve, Louise and family.
Steve & Louise Sinclair, Di's sister, 05/06/2010

Peter Wheeler was the consummate professional and one of the two people who helped me get started on a career in production that’s lasted over 30 years. My work with Peter was invariably in the recording studio and although he never rushed a job, there was always time for chat and a few jokes.

He never forgot a name, though he did once confuse one of my early clients, William Arnold, with a coach company with a similar name - hilariously captured in perhaps the best of Pluto’s Christmas out-take tapes. I still play it when I need a lift.

Like so many people you’ve left behind, Peter, I owe you dear friend.
Philip Howells, Bright Ideas AV/PHP; grateful friend, 05/06/2010

As a tribute to Peter, I have made a page on my website www.hingeandbracket-official.co.uk where you can listen to a clip from one of the shows he appeared on with Hinge & Bracket - click here to view

Hopefully a great tribute to a good man.

Paul Dunford, www.hingeandbracket-official.co.uk, 04/06/2010

The Neuromuscular Centre was proud and fortunate to have Peter as its Ambassador. Peter gave of his time and talents so generously and played MC and host at many of our charity fundraising events, most recently at Gorgeous Grub at the Grosvenor.

Everyone at the NMC is so sorry to hear of Peters passing and our thoughts are with Di at this sad time.
Lyndsey Cannon, The Neuromuscular Centre, 03/06/2010

Peter Wheeler set the standard. He introduced me to the hangover cure "Peppermint Tea" - a flask was always on hand during those early mornings at BBC Manchester. I feel so privileged to have worked with him in the 1980s and I learned so much. He was such good fun. If there is a heaven for Peter you can be sure the food and wine will be first class. A top bloke.
Caroline Woodruff, Voice artist and actor, 03/06/2010

We have lost a very special friend - life will never be quite the same again. A fitting testament to someone who made a real difference to so many peoples lives. He is so sadly missed by us all.
Our sincere condolences to Di, Leonie, Ollie and Peter's family.
John, Ros and family
John & Ros Fifield, Di's sister, 02/06/2010

I've just been to Peter's service in Wilmslow. He was the first person I was asked to 'produce' when I worked at Radio Manchester in the 80s. I was in my twenties, just starting in broadcasting and Peter had already done it all. I learnt loads from him about everything and he was always great fun to work with. Two stories stand out. One was a regular call from Peter on his new toy - his car phone. It was usually about 6.20am and we were on air at 6.30. He was always 'just a couple of minutes away' and not to worry but it might be worth having a record lined up. The second was him saying very calmly as we were coming out of the 7am news one morning that I might want to get his glasses from his car down in the basement because he couldn't read any of the cues in front of him! We spent about two years together on the early shift and it was always a delight because of him. Years later he was kind enough to compere two variety shows I was producing for charity at the Buxton Opera House. They were fly-by-the-seat-of-the-pants productions and I had the perfect pro who gave up his Saturday nights for nothing to help. The amateur and professional cast thought he was wonderful - why wouldn't they! I'm glad I saw him recently fronting another charity event at the Bridgewater Hall. Much missed but won't be forgotten.
Colin Sykes, BBC North West Tonight, 02/06/2010

I have so many wonderful cherished memories of my childhood spent with Peter; fishing onboard Scagdan, weekends at Wood Cottage from boarding school and the ‘whistle’ voice to name but a few. Tom and I were so looking forward to Peter being the MC at our wedding this June.
Much love to AD, Leonie, Oli & all who will miss him xxxxxxx
Victoria Fifield, 02/06/2010

Peter formed Ashwood with myself, Keith Hopwood and Di over ten years ago. He was always more than a colleague, more than a friend. He was the original, "More Than". He could be the most incisive mind at a business meeting and then be the most mischievious wit at dinner the same day. Whatever he was asked to read, whether it be a voice over or a track for an animation, he would always make it easy and simple, making a writer's task just as easy. My wife and I always loved having Peter and Di over to dinner and Maureen always insisted on sitting next to Peter so that she wouldn't "miss" anything he said. We will all miss him now and not in a small way.
Our love to Di and jo.
John Oakden - writer, Friend and colleague in Ashwood Productions, 02/06/2010

It's like the rock of Gibraltar has been removed from our lives. I feel so privileged to have worked with and got to know you as a friend Peter.
Always late, and always forgiven when you arrived with a smile, a joke and a new story to tell. You could whizz through commercial voice–overs, packing them full of power and enthusiasm however unlikely the advertiser. The best sight reader I have ever worked with, 15 scripts read and you would be was out of the door with another joke, on your way to the next job, at which, inevitably, you would arrive late - but only if it was a recording. Miraculously, anything live would ensure you were on time and fully prepared.
Generous to a fault, when I mentioned that I was going to America in a few days time and that my watch was broken, you took the very expensive watch off your wrist and insisted I took it.
I am kicking myself for not having more contact with you in last decade. I will truly miss the huge sense of humour, the fantastic professionalism, the amazing stories, the wise words when I needed them, the way of putting everything into proportion, the generosity, quite frankly, the list of things to miss is endless.... what a guy! Here's to you Peter - you leave a lot of empty space in us all now you are gone.
Steve England, s2Blue, 01/06/2010

I have been priviledged to know Peter for 35 years. So much more than a colleague, Peter was a true friend to me and all my family. He was such a fantastic support to all of us through our own losses. He always said I never worked FOR him, always WITH him and it was always fun. In his own words, "we don't do it if it isn't fun!" I learned so much from him and not just professionally. His kindness, thoughtfulness and eternal optimism were totally infectious as was that wonderful laugh. There's only one word I can think of for Captain Wheeler - irreplaceable.
Christine Livingstone, 01/06/2010

I knew him all my life and every single time I saw him, he made me laugh. We will all miss him. I'm thinking about you all today.
Victoria Price, family friend, 01/06/2010

I worked with Peter many times as a fellow voice-over and broadcaster. I well remember him breezing into a studio - late as usual, picking up a radio commercial script, scanning it for at least 5 seconds and then going for a take. The first read was word perfect but 1.3 seconds too long. He was asked if he could speed it up a bit. The second take was spot on in timing!! I never discovered just how he could do this so accurately but before I could ask for any hints he had vanished from the studio on his way to another job. The industry has lost a genius as well as a truly lovely man.
Anthony Schaeffer, Broadcaster, voice-over colleague, 01/06/2010

Peter Wheeler - oh how he made us laugh! David and I have lost such a very good friend. Peter was like a big brother to me. Always so kind and caring and to David an extremely good friend over the last 25 years. We came to regard Peter and Di as part of the fabric of our lives and will miss him terribly.

Our hearts go out to Di, Leoni and Oli at this very sad and difficult time.

Thank you for the memories.
David, Betsy-Jayne and Family, Close Friends, 01/06/2010

Peter was a breath of fresh air and a dedicated professional. It was a privilege and a pleasure to work with him in the past for several years during my Pluto Studios days. His infectious enthusiasm and 'Goon-like' sense of the ridiculous quite often stopped the session while all concerned shared in the nonsense! Watch out angels - there's a very special addition on his way! So - shape up!
Malcolm Rowe. Dublin., (Pluto Studios), 01/06/2010

Peter was a lovely larger than life man with the finest intonation of any Englishman on the planet. Have very happy memories of him from the one day course we had some years ago. One of the best courses (public speaking) I have ever done in my 30 years of working without a doubt. I remember pulling his chain about the English language belonging to the world and not just the English.

Great bloke
Ian Bunker , Civil Servant, Attended a course given by Peter, 01/06/2010

I first met Peter in the early 70's, where he would come to the first incarnation of Pluto Studios to record countless voice overs for TV commercials. We spent many happy hours after the sessions with Peter, and the likes of (another late) David Marlowe swapping stories. It was the finest education and the purest entertainment.

He was always the most consummate professional in his work, but give him a script with a funny name or twist of phrase, and he would be off. We would still refer to some of these moments event to this day, as they seemed to stick to our minds like fly paper. He loved silliness!

I've known Peter as an artist, a business colleague, and a friend and my life is the richer for it. I doubt we will see his like again, and he will be sadly missed.
Keith Hopwood, 01/06/2010

Hi Grandpa, its Josh

I just wanted to say thank you for supporting our team all the way through the league.

I got the players player award for my team at the award night last friday.

I will be very sad that you are not there to support us next season.

Lots of love josh

Josh Wheeler, 9, grandson, 01/06/2010

Dear Peter,
Thank you for being such a wonderful friend and source of support for me consistently and unfailingly over the 20 years since I moved to live a field away from you and Di in Willington.

Your kindness and cheerfulness helped raise my spirits when health challenges might otherwise have made me glum. Visits to Wood Cottage have always been special and I invariably left, usually driven home by you, feeling full of warm hospitality.

You have been a real treasure to know and leave a big gap in our local community.

With sincerest affection,

Sue

Sue Hardy, Friend and neighbour, 01/06/2010

Dear Peter,

You will be so greatly missed, we have so many happy memories to cherish. Evenings when we laughed until we ached.

You and Di opened your home and your hearts to us and your kindness and generosity knew no bounds.

Your endless work for charity was remarkable. You never said "no".

Thank you for being such a wonderful friend.

Fondest love,
Peter and Denise x
Peter and Denise Harper, 31/05/2010

This week both of us are attending the largest youth festival in Europe ,here, as always in Wales. The talent is amazing, with fifeteen thousand competitors taking part. While watching this talent, it brings to our memories the amazing talent that was Peter. He married his talent to his genuine and sincere personality. Yes ,you could roar with laughter at his turn of phrase, but you always knew that the foundation involved a real gentleman that we felt whenever we met him - mainly in Abersoch with Di, Ross and John. Both Cath and myself will miss him so much. Di we are thinking of you, and hope that given time, your grief will turn to happiness when memories of Peter will win through. Prys and Cath ( Edwards )
Prys and Cath Edwards, 31/05/2010

Dear Peter was such a wonderfully funny man, but never at anyone's expense.

He could spend a whole evening speaking in brilliant dialogue catching every inflection, and making all the guests roar with laughter. But at the same time, he looked after everyone, making sure that no-one was left out. I'll neve forget his and Di's kindness to my mother when my father died.

What a terrible shock for everyone that's he gone so suddenly. Such a giant of a man, a blazing light.

We'll all miss him, and we send so much love to Di and to all the children and families.
Jacky Crill/King, Friend, 31/05/2010

My wife, Trisha, and I worked alongside Peter at the BBC in the early 80s. And what a laugh it was!

To have such a lasting memory of someone you hadn't seen for nearly 30 years is testament to the greatness of his personality.

Much love to all who will miss him.

Jeff Cooper
Jeff Cooper, Ex-colleague, 31/05/2010

I only met Peter comparitively recently through Di and, reading all the tributes, realise how little I knew of his past. The recollections of kindness, friendship, lightness of touch and generosity I can warmly support.

Liz's and my thoughts must now be with Di, whose loyalty to a local cause I am involved in is second to none. May God guard Peter now and, as the prayer says, deal graciously with those who mourn.

With our warmest wishes of friendship
Jonathan Baldwin, friend, 31/05/2010

Peter was a very lovely human being. I am so sad to loose a very special friend.

So funny, so talented, so charming and a true gentleman. I'll miss the humour that was so infectious, and the noise from the laughter.That is how I shall remember my dear friend Peter.

To Di who have shared so many years together and my true friend - hold all your memories close to your heart. I'm thinking of you.

Peter will continue to make people smile with their memories.

Maxine Ganley, Friend, 30/05/2010

I am indebted to Peter every time I open the front door. After leaving the BBC (well, redundant) at 50, I had an unexpected offer from Classic FM. After a meeting with their programme controller I was travelling home on the train from London feeling decidely iffy about the whole prospect of moving down south and starting all over again. Who should be sitting behind me in the dining car but Peter. I told him the tale and Peter absolutely insisted that I accepted the job, or he would never speak to me again. How could I not take up the offer?
It subsequently gave me the necessary to realise my dream of owning a proper Cheshire brick cottage (also my Classic FM programme was sponsored by Cheltenham and Glos. Building Society!) and its been a joy ever since. Thank you Peter
Diana Stenson, Radio Producer and Friend, 30/05/2010

Lesley and myself have lost a good close friend of over 25 years.

Peter was a kind gentle man who cared for others and he was such a good supportive friend during my recent illnesses.

I, like Lesley will miss him so much especially as he was such an important part of a small group of really good friends.

We wish Di and family our heartfelt sympathy and know it will take a long time for the raw heartache to ease. Please know you have all our support and love.
Lesley & Mike Hadfield, Close friend, 30/05/2010

Peter has been a force in my life for over thirty years. I would often go to him for advice as I began my own career in BBC radio and later crossing to the "other side" in PR. He was always ready to proofread a document, tweek it or offer a 'vital title'. His professionalism and work ethic were a wonderful example to me when we worked together. I only have fond memories of Peter and was in awe of his patience and coolness under pressure. He was so kind, supportive and ready in any emergency for me, my Mum Di and my brother Oliver.
Leonie Guguen, 30/05/2010

Sad news indeed. Peter could breeze into the studio - invariably late - crack several jokes, scan a viciously difficult script full of medical or scientific terms with which he was not familiar, make a few indecipherable marks on the paper and record the whole thing with barely a re-take. The ultimate professional, but blessed with a wonderful sense of fun.Stories of Peter's escapades are legion; how sad they will never be added to. Thanks for the memories.
Ken Wrench, 29/05/2010

The name "Wheeter Peeler" (wrong spelling daughter!) came about from a day a long time ago at Granada when I was directing a session of Junior Criss Cross Quiz. It was Peter's first day as presenter.
The rehearsals had gone well. How could they not with Peter at the helm.
We rolled the tape , the captions came up, and the presenter was cued.
"Good evening. My name is Wheeter Peeler"
Collapse of the entire Studio. It was some time before we got the take in the can as Peter was such a giggler. The other 100+ edtions of the quiz went smoothly.
I have made hundreds of programmes with Peter, from WTPS to corporate training.
His great sense of humour and solid professionalism were his trade mark.
He was a joy to work with. Meg and I will miss him.
Eric Harrison, Close friend, ex Director Granada TV, 29/05/2010

So many lovely memories - Peter's anecdotes over the years entertained us; his generosity of his time given with a smile.

He gave our son items of recording equipment and enthisiastic help.

It was a privilege to know him, he will be sorely missed.

Jonty and Jules, friends, 29/05/2010

Mum and Dad were "Meric and Egg" and you were "Weter Pheeler!"
Happy memories from childhood as Jackie and I played the days away in Wilmslow with "The Wheelers".
So sorry to hear the news. A real shock.
Lots and lots of love to Pat, Jo, Nick, Ali and Chris.

Christina Harrison-Stirling, 29/05/2010

Since the early sixties in Radio and later in T.V. I've bumped into Peter erratically and spasmodically until I retired in1989. Since then we've met less frequently, usually at some party or Xmas do and I've come away from our hilarious encounters feeling much better and bubbling with laughter. Peter possessed the Joyous Gene in abundance and by rights should have lived for ever. Unfortunately we now will have to rely solely on our lovely memories of him for which all of us are, I'm sure, eternally grateful. The mould is broken.
John Howarth, Audio.Radio and TV. Manchester, 28/05/2010

My memories for Peter go back over sixty-plus years. They began when the Headmaster at WHGS brought into the classroom a new boy and said 'Shields, look after Wheeler!' A tall order as I found out as our friendship developed.

We got into all sorts of scrapes - like the day we almost got suspended from school by turning up in strawboaters with pre-war school hatbands. Very sartorial.

With Peter there was always good humoured competition - like the day we were opposing platoon commanders in a CCF war game. He beat me twice in one day - I contended by going out of bounds but, of course, with his usual charm he persuaded the umpires 'all was fair in love and war'.

And then there was his artistic side (an early development of his showmanship) - his Bunthorn in Iolanthe at school was an absolute bravura perfomrnace, of which Oscar Wilde would have been proud.

Tales of escapades with him are legion. He brought a great deal of humour into those days and the early days of our marriages.

Look after yourself, wherever you are!
Tony Shields, School and family friend, 28/05/2010

Having worked with Peter since the early days of "What the Papers Say" and on other programmes, I wholeheartily endorse all the good things others have written.
One piece of trivia - he was the only person I knew who could continue speaking coherently while his delayed voice was fed back to him on headphones !
He was great to work with, and a privilege to know.
Gordon Butler, Granada TV. Sound dept., 27/05/2010

I was deeply shocked to hear of Peter's untimely passing. He was such a wonderful man.

On a day's shoot when Peter was part of the crew (and he always wanted to be regarded as a crew member and not an aloof presenter like some) you knew you were in for a day of fun, laughter and a job exceedingly well done.

He was such a joy to work with and will be missed by so many.
John Chester, Lighting Cameraman (retired), 27/05/2010

I always looked up to Peter as one of the great men of broadcasting. I first met him at Radio Manchester, later GMR, when he presented the breakfast programme with the late Chris Walmsley. This was quality broadcasting. I was constantly amazed at Peter's work rate. The breakfast programme was just the start of his working day. I recall during the 80's travelling to Westminster for an NUJ strike rally, then getting lost in some back streets as we threaded our way towards the motorway. I'd heard Peter that morning on the breakfast programme. In the distance we spotted a man loading a large van. As we got closer we were amazed to see that it was Peter. After his breakfast show he'd driven all the way to London to put on a presentation, and was getting ready to head back in time for the following day's breakfast show.
A truly amazing man.
David Hulme, Friend, 27/05/2010

I was very sad to learn of Peter's sudden death. For the last 4 years he presented 'Christmas is Coming' - the annual Christmas concert by St Ann's Hospice Festival Choir - at the Bridgewater Hall. I was about to call him to arrange to do the same this year.

The ease with which he presented the concerts, never obtrusive, dealing with the odd hitch, encouraging to participate and sensitively promoting the work of St Ann's Hospice was the hallmark of Peter's work.

I will miss the 2 or 3 hours preparation for the concerts - over tea and a bun - where he talked about everything apart from the concert. But this did not matter because on the night he was superb and totally reliable.

Peter will be sadly missed by the choir and St Ann's Hospice and we send our condolences to his family at this sad time.

John Pomphrey, Conductor St Ann's Hospice Festival Choir, 27/05/2010

When working with Peter you knew you would get two things - a totally professional piece of work and a lot of fun.
So sorry to hear the news.
Celia Bonner , BBC/EBC, 27/05/2010

I have so many happy memories of times with Peter at Granada in the old days - and send the family all my sympathy at this time of shock, sadness and loss.

Bamber Gascoigne, 27/05/2010

So many people in broadcasting will have been shocked by the news of Peter's death; so many will then have been saddened on reflection but comforted by memories of a man of such ability and a voice that rattled out scripts with amazing speed when required. He was a memorable figure alongside Northern broadcasters with so much talent, quite irreplaceable and a great loss.
Freddie Knowles, BBC North West (retired), 26/05/2010

I often saw Peter working hard to make us smile.
I often saw him rushing in or rushing out.
I sometimes noticed him looking tired.
I never saw him without his smile.

Bill Gilmour, A colleague at Granada, 26/05/2010

Peter was a seat-of-your-pants-last-minute-let's wing-it- it's bound to be more fun-that-way broadcaster. And I remember he himself told me the story that made the point.
He breezes in late to rehearse a R4 play in New BH with, I think, Tony Cliffe directing and starts to apologise. Tony waves him to his chair and carries on with the rehearsal. Peter settles down and studies the script, waiting for his cue. But there is something about the script he finds unsettling. He starts to say something but Tony raises a hand to silence him. The read-through proceeds right through to the end but Peter is never called upon for his contribution. He has got the wrong time, the wrong day -- and the wrong play!
Peter Harrison , former colleague , 26/05/2010

Lynne and I knew Peter for more than 45 years - in my case I worked with him for all of that time. He was a supreme professional, a wonderful man and we will never forget him.
Mike Becker, Colleague and great friend, 26/05/2010

Peter was great fun and put the petty politics of broadcasting in true perspective. He was though the ultimate professional who used his distinctive voice and genial personality to great effect.
In short he was a memorable character and it was a joy to have worked with him.
Martin Henfield, BBC North West (retired), 26/05/2010

Peter was around for my whole BBC career and it was always a pleasure to work with him, both for his manners and the fact that retakes were few and editing minimal, except once, when he got the giggles about something and couldn't stop! I'm really sorry to hear that he's no longer with us.
Graham Harwood, BBC SM., 26/05/2010

Worked with Peter on many Radio programmes and Dramas in Leeds and Manchester.
It was always a delight to work with someone who combined such professionalism and a wicked sense of humour.You just knew that from the moment he arrived it was going to be a great programme- his confidence was that infectious.
He always managed to give 101% - working with him was always a delight,and he set a standard that others can only hope to achieve.
A very sad loss to broadcasting.

Ian C Reed
Ian Reed, Audio supervisor - Manchester, 26/05/2010

Larger than life? The phrase was so Peter Wheeler that I’m surprised he didn’t copyright it. A session with Peter was always an occasion, always theatre, and always guaranteed to be FUN. Ever the gentleman, he would treat even the most awkward client with more respect than they perhaps deserved, and made them feel that they, and the product, were unique – even if it was the tenth script of the day!

Some random and vivid memories of mine...

Rolling up at Indigo on his ‘sit up an beg’ bike... ‘The only way to get round town!’ For a few weeks anyway.
Rolling up late, but always with an amazing story by way of explanation. If the Martians had ever landed on Earth they would surely have button-holed Peter on the way to session.
Mischievous sessions ‘corpsing’ other Voices. He really knew how to reduce a man to tears, especially the youthful John Mundy. Sadly I never kept their bloopers reel.
Master of the Art of getting the most words into the least time...
Half a dozen marathon documentary sessions with a feisty lady called Lucy Voss. Don’t remember the company or the product but we both had her name engraved forever on our memory.

Although we hadn’t worked together for a good few years, he was always in my thoughts and ever will be.

Larger than life? It’s a big space to fill.
God bless.

Phil Hampson, Producer and friend, 25/05/2010

I produced What the Papers Say for many years. I cannot remember those days without remembering Peter. He helped make it a joy and privilege to produce, the most fun I ever had riding that strange beast called TV.

We had some splendid 'voices', but he, above all, for me will always be the voice of What the Papers Say. Wish I had realised at a time what a great programme I had and what a great team.

Thanks Peter.
Brian Morris, Lucky TV Producer, 25/05/2010

Whenever anybody mentions the name Peter Wheeler, I’m immediately taken back to a session in the home studio of Alan and Joy Fawkes. Peter, as usual, was running late a little late, so when he arrived walked straight into the voice booth. I couldn’t help noticing that his hand was fully bandaged. The 30 sec commercial was simple enough, but as usual I got my money’s worth by asking him to read it 28 times. Peter was quite rightly a little agitated by this and to add insult to injury I decided to go with the first take which had of course been perfectly read some 40 minutes earlier. The atmosphere was a little tense so I attempted to smooth things over by enquiring how he had damaged his hand … Peter drew close, bent over, placed his nose about 3 inches from mine and with a wicked glint in his eye said “… I did this by THUMPING a producer …”

Thank you Peter for your superb and versatile voice, your professional guidance and of course your hysterical contribution to recording sessions over many years … You really were the Godfather of the North West voice circuit.

Jerry Rowlands, 25/05/2010

Very shocked to hear the news. A great man and absolute professional who never took himself too seriously. He made business fun with his dry sense of humour regardless of the pressure. It has been a great privilege to have known the big man and over the years he has serendipitously appeared through strong personal and business connections.

The last great chapter with Peter was at Hampstead Heath in London making a TV ad with Bill Oddie where every 50/40/60... bottles of White & Wild milk purchased plants one of these (tree sapling) growing into one of those with Bill pointing at a grand old oak tree in the distance. Sounds simple but I had no idea that a thirty minute ad would take that long to make and would test the patience of everyone except Peter who remained totally unflappable.

As he has been responsible for helping to plant thousands of trees in Scotland through the Scottish Bill Oddie White & Wild TV ad campaign, I felt it was only fitting for Tree Appeal to plant a small Peter Wheeler Wood closer to home in his memory and to that end we are donating 500 trees and will be looking for an appropriate site.

Farewell to a great man who will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
Ken Whitley, Tree Appeal, 25/05/2010

A wonderfully funny man, a brilliant role model, and such a supportive work colleague - he bailed me out on more than one occasion when I overslept the start of "Wake up with Wheeler"
The industry has lost a real star.
Janet Boulding, 25/05/2010

I am truly sorry to hear this shocking news, please let me express my sincere condolences.

It was a pleasure to have worked with Peter, he was a true professional with a great personality.

Najah Hussain, SAREEM Consultancy, Dubai, 24/05/2010

My dearest and closest friend for 62 years always there for many, always helpful, kind, professional, knowledgable, a fantastic wit and raconteur. His memory will never fade.
Bob Dale, Lifelong friend, 24/05/2010

Such fond memories of Peter.
His counting down of the clock on "What the Papers Say" used to make the studio laugh and relaxed us all, for what he called the fastest ride on the fairground.
A wonderful man, a real professional and I am very proud to have worked with him and to call him a dear friend. He will never be forgotten.

Delia Corrie, colleague and friend, 24/05/2010

I had the honour of working with Peter on a DTI video a few years ago and have since met up with him from time to time. He was so kind to me when I was widowed – with his characteristic gentleness that was in such contrast to his bearing as a former Army boxer. I remember in particular Peter’s wit, humanity and professionalism. I am desperately sad at his death but tremendously cheered by his memory. What a man!
Simon Rodwell, 24/05/2010

I had the privilege of knowing Peter Wheeler for nearly a quarter of a century.

Peter was always ready with an amusing anecdote, a pearl of wisdom or a kind supportive word. He was a warm hearted, caring and special human being.

He once said to me, “There is nothing to fear but fear itself!”
And that’s the way he lived his life. Fearlessly, with compassion, inspiration and love.

Peter had the uncanny knack of saying the right thing at the right time.
His very presence created excitement, energy and a sense of possibility.

His authoritative words and that special distinctive voice graced by his sharp wit and natural charm helped lighten the load.

In reflective mood, he once confided in me, “If could live my life over, I wouldn’t change a thing.” He was truly the captain of his own ship.

Above all, Peter was always Peter.

His spirit has moved on and we are diminished by his passing. But when I think of him, it always makes me smile.

I will miss him more than words can express.

John Walkley, Friend, 24/05/2010

Thank you for being my friend, Peter.
Derek, 24/05/2010

We were very sad to hear of Peter's death and pass our condolences on to his family.

I spent many fun hours with Peter in the studio particularly in the Alfasound days - Peter was the voice of the Co-op then and he would entertain us with wonderful stories as well as riotous sessions with John Mundy, Mike Hurley and Chris Kay.

As a young engineer then - I also appreciated greatly his help and advice

Sadly I had not seen him for a number of years but will always remember him as a true gentleman.
Ian Royle, 24/05/2010

On the few occasions that I met Peter, I thought what an intelligent, witty, lovely man - he'll be greatly missed.
Jane Lomas, 23/05/2010

A sad loss for his family and friends. A great loss to the industry
Trisha Gough, 23/05/2010

My abiding memory of Peter will be one of laughter. I beam now as I remember the many hysterical multi-voice commercial production sessions we shared.
Peter was a consummate professional with a larger-than-life personality who never failed to see the funny side.
He will be greatly missed by all those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

John Mundy, Fellow presenter / voice-over, 23/05/2010

Your sad news about Peter's sudden death, shocked and upset me. Although I hadn't seen or spoken to him for many years I always had the greatest admiration and respect for Peter. I regarded him as a business friend I could always depend on for integrity and brilliance. This always came with the added bonus of great warmth and a wonderful sense of humour.

When I met him a few weeks ago he was smiling and laughing and absolutely on top form. He wowed my client and an audience of 70 business people with his charm, humour and pin sharp focus on the issues and matters of the day. Without any rehearsal or briefing, he just breezed into the theatre and switched on.

He was a genius and a gentleman. Impossible to replace.

Tim Ingham, 22/05/2010

So very sad to hear of Peter's passing.

I had such fun interviewing Peter on a few occasions, endless funny stories, a great reconteur & a lovely soul.

Thanks for the memories Peter.

Phil Wood, Broadcaster, 21/05/2010