Paddy Feeny

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Paddy Feeny was a legend during his years at BBC Radio as presenter of their Saturday Special Sportsworld program from 1959 to 1995. It is difficult today to imagine the hold and importance of radio on culture before the days of satellite TV. Paddy, with his enchanting, hypnotic style, made the commonplace seem magical.

The feature began with a duration of an hour in 1959 during the summer months. Slowly its scope expanded, and with football playing ever bigger role in British life, it became possible to have long editions in winter months also. The program would run for 2+ hours, sometimes as long as 3 hours 15 minutes, with only two 15-minute breaks for the news on the hour.

Paddy's involvement with sports lessened after the death of his wife in 1994, and he presented his last edition in June 1995. He was a passionate supporter of Liverpool Football Club.

He also presented a few other BBC programs, like Reader's Letters.