I am so sorry to learn of the death of Bill Heine after his battle with leukaemia.  He was a lovely man and a good friend.

He was a real professional as a journalist and broadcaster; always well prepared and on top of his brief.  He had a lovely sense of humour which occasionally got him into trouble but he always survived, mainly because he was such a nice man.  To many, he was Radio Oxford and he had a great following of people who loved, hated and feared him in equal measure.

I had some grand times with Bill in the Oxford studio, debating many issues.  Bill as presenter and me as Leader of Oxfordshire County Council.  You could always rely on Bill to bowl a googly during the interview but with a twinkle in his eye.

Bill loved Oxford and Oxfordshire.  Born an American and, I think, remaining one, he studied at Oxford University, made his home here and gave 30 years of his life to Radio Oxford. 

He was more than a journalist to me.  He was a good friend and companion.  He came to our parties at Nell Bridge and entertained others with his knowledge and humour.  We also had some interesting times at his home, with his partner, Jane.

Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine et lux perpetua luceam eis.