BBC Radio Wales presenter Chris Needs was born in Cwmafan near Port Talbot in 1954.

Before joining Radio Wales, Chris was a star presenter for six years for independent Welsh radio. He built up a large and loyal following with his cheerful one-to-one style.

In 1996's Radio 'Oscars' he won the coveted Sony Silver Award for Best Regional Presenter.

Chris joined Radio Wales along with a host of other new presenters in August 1996, as part of a re-vamp of the schedules.

He began by co-presenting the mid-morning magazine programme, Live Time, and an edition of the afternoon phone-in show, The Network.

Chris now hosts his own brand of late night music and chat with The Friendly Garden Programme, where he's formed an on-air club of listeners. All are members of The Garden and each has a membership number. Anyone can join and signing up means you'll receive a starter pack, badge and goody bag.

In 2005, Chris Needs was awarded the MBE. On 22 June 2005, he collected this award from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. Some of the Garden Club members were even there with him to celebrate his momentus day.

Visit Chris Needs' personal web site

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