Folk musician and BBC presenter Archie Fisher dies aged 86 | UK News

Folk musician and former Scotland presenter Archie Fisher has died at the age of 86.

The singer, songwriter and guitarist had presented Radio Scotland’s Travelling Folk from 1983 to 2010.

Born in Glasgow into a singing family, he released a number of albums over the years and was among the earliest steel-string players in British folk music.

In 2006, he was awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours for services to traditional Scottish music.

In posts on social media, Scottish singing star Barbara Dickson described him as “the great Archie Fisher”.

She said: “My musical mentor and huge cultural icon here in Scotland. Rest in Peace, Archie. Bx”.

Hayley Valentine, director of Scotland said: “Archie was a popular voice on Radio Scotland for many years and an influential figure in the country’s traditional music scene.

“As the long-time presenter of Travelling Folk, he brought warmth and a deep musical insight to generations of listeners.

“We are saddened by the news of Archie’s passing and send our condolences to his family, friends, and former colleagues.”

Scottish radio and TV presenter Vic Galloway said: “I’m very sad to hear the news about the passing of Archie Fisher.

“I met him many times at the over the years & he was always a real gentleman, as well as being a great broadcaster. Obviously he was a legend of Scottish folk & traditional music as well… Archie RIP.”

Scottish folk singer Iona Fyfe said: “So sad to hear of the passing of Archie Fisher. A true folk music hero and inspiration. Rest easy Archie. Thoughts with the family and all who loved Archie and his music.”

Donald Shaw, creative producer of Celtic Connections, said: “Archie Fisher was one of the great tradition bearers of the Scottish folk scene, and an inspiring, much-loved singer-songwriter before his success as a radio presenter.

“Songs like ‘Men of Worth’ – his powerful tribute to Scots fishing – have become part of the contemporary folk repertoire, testament to his natural writing style.

“His celebratory 80th anniversary concert at Celtic Connections a few years ago was a highlight from the festival over the years, with artists from across the world seeking a turn on the night.

“As anyone on the music scene today will tell you, he was full of wit, kindness and knowledge. He will be sorely missed.”

Fisher, who died on Saturday, moved to Edinburgh in 1960 and lived in the south of Scotland in his final years.