This project is not just about a building with John’s name on it, the family have been hands on with the planning and developing the whole idea right from the start.

John Peel was an English disc jockey, radio presenter and journalist. He was the longest-serving of the original BBC Radio 1 DJ’s broadcasting regularly from 1967 until his death in 2004. He was known for his eclectic taste in music and his honest and warm broadcasting style.

It has been said that John Peel was one of the most influential people in British music. Through his brilliant career with Radio 1, a musical taste that defined a culture and his hugely popular Radio 4 show Home Truths, John reached out to an audience as diverse as his record collection. He was renowned for encouraging new music from unlikely sources and was uniquely talented and treasured figure in British broadcasting.

John lived with his family in Great Finborough, a small village near Stowmarket, for over 30 years and his wife Sheila still lives in the family home. He involved himself in local life and was a highly respected member of the local community.

When John died, tributes arrived from bands, fans and supporters from all around the world. As the BBC said “Radio had lost an original voice, musicians had lost a champion, fans had lost a hero and Britons had lost their favourite uncle. John Peels death was mourned by teenagers, their parents and even their grandparents.”

The family’s involvement and support will ensure that we provide a fitting and lasting tribute to a much revered British Icon. The incorporation of a memorial to John’s career, giving an insight into the life and work of a true pioneer, will add a unique dimension to the facility.