13th October 2008 - It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Hugh Hardy. Hugh was a man who strolled into my life in the last weekend in May 1978 while I was working in a Dublin radio station called Big D Radio.

He walked into the station in Chapel Lane and casually asked if anyone was interested in working on his radio station, which was located in Dundalk Shopping Centre, Dundalk, County Louth. I volunteered, as did John Paul and Eric Vaughan. It was Hugh who gave me the chance to officially open his radio station - Radio Carousel. The station's theme tune "Don't Stop The Carousel" was appropriate.

I worked for Hugh Hardy from May 1978 for 7 years right through to 1985. I am forever grateful to Hugh Hardy for giving me my first ever paid job in radio. A true gentleman who treated everyone fairly, Hugh was a man of vision who saw his dream fulfilled to eventually become The Radio Carousel Network.

A great entertainer and a true showman, Hugh was an avid country music fan and his regular twice-daily 'Country Call' shows were legend. Ending each programme with the catchphrase "Mooooooooooooovin On" - no Irish presenter has ever presented a show like Hugh has done - and none ever will. Hugh was unique.

I am sure everyone who listened to his shows and everyone who had the privilege of working for him will join me in saying: "Hugh, thanks for the memories and Don't Stop The Carousel"