Stars from across the decades have paid tributes to late BBC Radio 1 DJ Janice Long, following her passing on Christmas Day after a short illness.

The presenter, who rose to prominence as the first woman to regularly host ‘Top of the Pops’, enjoyed a 40-year career in broadcasting across TV and radio.

Having started out as a radio assistant on BBC Radio Merseyside in 1979, the Liverpool-born star went on to work at the BBC’s flagship stations including Radio 1.

At the station, she was also the first woman to have her own regular daily show, on which she championed future stars such as The Smiths and Frankie Goes To Hollywood, and Adele and Amy Winehouse.

Long’s agent, Nigel Forsyth, confirmed her sad death, aged 66, in a statement, sharing: “Janice was a wonderful, warm human being and exceptional broadcaster.

“She told a brilliant story and always made you roar with laughter with her sharp wit. She will leave behind her husband Paul and two children, whom she thought the world of.”

He added: “Janice wanted it known she was so thankful to the NHS and all who looked after her there.”

Meanwhile, BBC director-general, Tim Davie, said the “stellar presenter” was “loved and respected across the industry”. 

He added: “Her passing is a huge loss to music, broadcasting and the BBC.”

Following news of her passing, acts from across the years shared their memories of Long, including Pet Shop Boys, who remembered her as “always [being] so enthusiastic about new music and such fun to be around”

“She was very supportive to us in the early days of PSB,” they added. “Heartfelt condolences to her family and friends. Neil and Chris xx.”

“Desperately sad to hear that Janice Long has died,” said Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark. “She was a great supporter of ours. Condolences to her family and friends.”

Frontman Andy McCluskey added: “So very sad to hear of the the death of Janice Long. Amazing lady, great friend, music lover and champion. A pioneering female DJ who opened many doors for others.  

“I will miss you so much Janice. All my love and sympathies to your family. Andy x.”

Toyah Willcox shared: “Dear wonderful Janice Long championed women in music. Janice has been in my life my whole career, my deepest sympathy to all her family, friends, listeners and fans. Too young to lose you. Toyah xxx.”

“First ever Frankie radio interview was conducted by her on Street Life on Radio Merseyside and she was the first to play us on the radio when she played the demo of “Relax”,” said Frankie Goes To Hollywood.

“Always had our back. Condolences to her family and loved ones. RIP X

Electronic music pioneer Gary Numan shared in his own post: “Just heard the truly horrible news that Janice Long has died. One of the nicest, funniest people I’ve had the good fortune to know over the years. 

“A fantastic supporter not just of my music but so many others. A huge loss to music. This is a sad day.”

“Dreadful news. Janice stood with us on the pitch at Wembley stadium as we announced Live Aid,” posted Midge Ure. “A broadcast legend and absolute music lover.”

Further tributes poured in from colleagues and friends including Gary Davies, Tony Blackburn, Mike Read, Saint Etienne, Then Jericho, Paul Heaton, Richard Coles, Craig Charles, Tim Burgess and others.