Frank Wappat is the longest serving presenter at BBC Radio Newcastle, having been here since the station opened. Over the years he has founded the Al Bowlly Circle and the British Bandleaders Club.
Place of birth: Hebburn.
Favourite place or view in the North East:
Teesdale. My ancestors lived there from the mid 1400s. I have full details of every birth, death and marriage. There is even a Wappat Family History Website!
First record you bought:
Harry Roy's Dance Band with Marjorie Kingsley taking the vocal.
I still have the record and achieved a life long ambition in tracking her down to America, where she emigrated with her serviceman husband after the war. I was delighted to be able to interview her for one of my programmes.
Previous jobs:
UK Credit Controller for an American cosmetic company, famous for Old Spice, Carven and Nina Ricci.
Good memories:
My first production work for radio (Radio 390 Pirate) whilst I was in London.
Bad memories:
Boarding the station's ship by breeches buoy - I can't swim!!
Best thing about working in radio:
An opportunity to share my specialist music knowledge and vast music collection with the listeners. Staying local, and being local, means I've had the chance over the years to get out and about and record local talent.
Most interesting person you have interviewed for radio:
Everybody's favourite - the nostalgia king, Bing Crosby.
Best thing about your show:
The Monday evening show re-creates memories for many listeners and provides a welcome musical change for my increasing younger audience. Sunday afternoons allow me to focus on local talent from across the region, past and present.
Who you would most like to be stuck in a lift with:
I suppose it would have to be a lift engineer to get me out quick!
Favourite party game:
Not going when invited! I'm not a party animal, with its false laughter, inebriates and folk who play party games.
Where you are when you get most of your inspiration or creative thoughts:
At home in my study, after midnight with a couple of whiskies.
Funny sayings you like to use:
I don't recall using any - life is funny enough!
Proudest achievement:
Being voted Britain's Top Radio Presenter by the Daily Mirror, knocking Michael Aspel and Dale Winton into seventh and last place respectively
Where you like to go for quiet moments:
I'm currently re-organising my home to establish a meditation room, but if I'm really honest I'm a people person and love the company of others. I like the saying 'it takes more than one piece of coal start a fire' and I'm enthused by the stimulating company of others.
Memories of teachers at school:
French was my best subject and I was very fond of my French master, Dr. G.W. Spink. He became an officer in the secret service (I think) as every letter I got from him was marked 'censored by Dr G.W. Spink'.
Favourite playground game or rhyme:
None. I hated playtime. I was never a strong kid who could easily mix with the rougher girls and boys.
Any habits, annoying or otherwise:
None whatsoever! Although, if you ask my wife I'm sure she'll have a few for you.
For those who haven't enjoyed the laid back approach of Frank Wappat's broadcast style, just click the following links - "its not like listening to the radio, it's like opening the door to a friend!"
SUNDAYS
BBC RADIO NEWCASTLE
• FM 95.4 / 96.00 / 103.7 / 104.4
INSPIRATIONAL SHOW - 6.00AM - 7.30AM
Frank's special blend of Gospel, Inpirational and Meditational Music - a great way to start your week
FRANK WAPPAT MUSIC - 7.00PM - 10.00PM
BBC RADIO NEWCASTLE BBC NORTH YORKSHIRE
• FM 95.4 / 96.00 / 103.7 / 104.4 • FM 95.5 / 103.7 / 104.3
• MW 1458 • MW 666 / 1260
A programme of 30's, 40's and 50's Nostalgia, Jazz, Dance, Swing and Vocals of the era.
Both programmes can be heard on the world wiude web (internet) via the BBC's Listen again facility, any day or night, at any time. Use the links below to listen in
