LEGEND LOST
Steve Wright’s cause of death revealed as ruptured stomach ulcer after BBC DJ died aged just 69
Scotland Yard previously said Steve's death was 'unexpected'
STEVE Wright's cause of death has been revealed as a ruptured stomach ulcer after the BBC DJ died aged just 69.
The radio star's death certificate states that the causes of death were acute peritonitis and a perforated gastric peptic ulcer.
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Peritonitis is an infection of the inner lining of the abdomen, which can be caused by a burst stomach ulcer.
Scotland Yard previously said Steve's death at a flat in Marylebone, central London in February was "unexpected".
But the force said the Radio 2 DJ's death was not being treated as suspicious.
In May, Westminster Coroner's Court said: "An inquest will not be required for Mr Wright. The coroner has now discontinued this case."
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Steve joined the BBC in the 1970s and hosted popular afternoon shows on Radio 1 and Radio 2 for more than 40 years.
He became one of Britain's best-loved radio DJs and also presented TV shows including Top of the Pops.
WHAT ARE STOMACH ULCERS AND PERITONITIS?
ONE in 10 adults can expect to get a stomach ulcer at some point but most clear up with treatment.
In some cases they can burst and split the lining of the stomach, which may lead to a more serious infection like peritonitis.
Peritonitis is a bacterial infection of the lining inside your stomach that requires hospital treatment and can be fatal.
Stomach ulcers are normally caused by bacterial infection or organ damage due to long-term use of anti-inflammatory pills like aspirin and ibuprofen.
Men and over-60s are most affected, and being overweight or smoking raises the risk of developing one.
Many people think they are caused by stress but the NHS says there is “little evidence” that is true.
The main symptom of an ulcer is a regular burning pain in the stomach and one may also cause indigestion, heartburn, a loss of appetite, vomiting or weight loss.
Peritonitis symptoms are worse and include a fever, stomach pain and swelling and a fast heartbeat.
Michael Ball took over Steve's Radio 2 show Sunday Love Songs last month.
West End star Michael said: "Steve made Love Songs 'appointment to listen' radio.
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"I'm beyond excited and more than a little nervous to be tasked with the chance to continue with his extraordinary legacy.
"Beautiful, moving, relaxing and uplifting music to lift the soul on a Sunday morning.
"Coupled with the stories, suggestions, requests and precious memories from you, the listener."
Michael added: "This won't be just MY show, but OUR show."
Back in February, Steve's family said: "It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve.
"In addition to his son, Tom, and daughter, Lucy, Steve leaves behind his brother, Laurence and his father Richard.
"Millions of devoted radio listeners had the good fortune and great pleasure of allowing Steve into their daily lives.
"He was one of the UK's most enduring and popular radio personalities.
"As we all grieve, the family requests privacy at this immensely difficult time."
From bullied schoolboy to BBC legend
By Jane Matthews
STEVE Wright went from being a bullied schoolboy cruelly dubbed 'Big Nose' to a BBC radio legend.
Wright was born in Greenwich, London and attended Eastwood High School in Southend-on-Sea, Essex.
It was there that he was cruelly nicknamed Big Nose and Concorde.
His first job after leaving school was in marine insurance but after three years he realised it wasn't for him.
It was then that Wright left to become a local newspaper reporter.
This led him to BBC, as a record librarian, which then went on to his own shows - and the rest was history.
But in 2022 he announced he was stepping back from his Afternoon show after more than two decades.
He said at the time: "Before we start the show proper, if I may, I'd just like to say thank you ever so much for all the messages that have come in, over the weekend after I announced on Friday on the afternoon that we are leaving the afternoon show."
The axing saw him take another step towards his Sunday Love Songs show - which he last appeared on just days before his death.
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