Everyone at Radio Newark is saddened to learn of the death of presenter Paul "Tumper" Lane, who passed away yesterday at the age of 64.

Known affectionately to generations of Newark residents as "Tumper", Paul was a familiar face and voice across Newark and beyond for almost five decades. Whether behind a microphone, behind a set of decks or simply sharing his encyclopaedic knowledge of music, he became one of the area's most recognisable and well-loved personalities.

Born and raised in Newark, Paul often spoke proudly of his local roots. He attended Sconce Hills School and grew up in a family where music played a central role. His grandfather, Tommy Rawson, was a well-known pub pianist who performed across Newark during the 1960s, while other members of the family were also involved in the local music scene.

As a teenager, Paul developed a passion for records and built a collection that would eventually grow to around 20,000 records. By the age of 14, he had already decided he wanted to become a DJ.

That ambition became reality in 1976 when, after becoming involved with activities at Sconce Hills Youth Club, he began DJing at local discos and events. What started as a teenage hobby would develop into a remarkable career spanning almost five decades.

Many people will remember Paul from his years at The Bowling Green, where alongside Keith Vickers he helped create some of Newark's most memorable nights out. Others will remember him from clubs and venues across Nottinghamshire and beyond, where his knowledge of music, larger-than-life personality and ability to entertain made him one of the region's most respected DJs.

Alongside his hugely successful career as a DJ, Paul developed a lifelong love of radio.

In 1986, he joined Radio Trent as an East Midlands runner, helping to organise roadshows, promotions and events across the region. It was a role that placed him at the heart of one of the most exciting periods in local commercial radio and one that he often spoke about with great affection.

Over the years, Paul became involved with a number of radio stations, including Trent FM, Mercier Sound in Coventry, Radio Witham in Grantham, Lincoln Castle Radio, Newark's Boundary Sound and local hospital radio. He worked alongside some of the best-known names in regional broadcasting and remained passionate about radio throughout his life.

For Paul, radio was never simply about being on air. It was about connecting with people, sharing great music and creating memorable experiences for listeners. Whether presenting a programme, supporting an event or swapping stories with colleagues, his enthusiasm for broadcasting never faded.

That passion eventually brought him to Radio Newark, where he became a valued member of the station family. Colleagues remember not only his vast knowledge of music and radio history, but also his warmth, humour and genuine love for the community he called home.

Radio Newark Managing Director Phil Johnson said:

"Paul was the first person I met in radio after moving to Newark in 2013. Right from the start, his passion for broadcasting and his belief in doing something special for the town stood out.

Over the years, he became both a colleague and a friend. Whether it was spending time together in the studio on a Friday night or our regular weekly phone calls, there was never a shortage of stories, laughter and conversation. He always answered the phone with 'Hello, Pop Picker' and more often than not would sign off with Alan Freeman's famous catchphrase, 'Not arf'.

What struck me most was that everybody seemed to know Tumper. He was a true Newark character who loved music, loved radio and loved this town.

Radio Newark has always been about people, and Paul played a big part in building and keeping that spirit alive. His work over more than a decade leaves a legacy we will always remember. The station we have today owes a great deal to his dedication and belief in what local radio can do.

I'll miss our chats enormously."

As news of Paul's passing has spread, tributes have begun to be shared by friends, listeners, fellow broadcasters and those who remember him from Newark's vibrant music scene. For many people across Newark and the surrounding area, Paul provided the soundtrack to some of life's happiest moments, whether that was on the dancefloor, on the radio, or at one of the countless events where his passion for music brought people together.

Paul leaves behind his partner Samantha, daughters Claire and Sophie, their partners Darren and Nathan, and his much-loved grandchildren Tommy, Elsie, Dolly and Sofia.

The family have asked for privacy as they come to terms with their loss and would like to thank everyone for their kindness, support and tributes at this difficult time.

Everyone at Radio Newark extends its sincere condolences to Paul's family, friends and all those whose lives he touched.

Paul "Tumper" Lane leaves behind a legacy of friendship, music and memories that will continue to be cherished by generations of Newark people for years to come.