**BBC World Service DJ Charlie Gillett has died after a long illness, aged 68.**Known as a champion of world music, the Lancashire-born broadcaster passed away on Wednesday morning, his official website confirmed.
The author and publisher had contracted a disease of the autoimmune system, and last week suffered a heart attack.
Gillett is credited with discovering Dire Straits in 1976 after playing Sultans of Swing from their demo tape on his Radio London show Honky Tonk.
‘Sorely missed’
He also wrote an acclaimed history of rock’n’roll, The Sound of the City, in the 1970s.
World Service director Peter Horrocks said he was an inspiration whose spirit of adventure and passion for the rich diversity of global music opened the ears of the world.
“His broadcasts brought together music and radio fans from far flung corners of the globe,” he said.
“His postbag was one of the biggest, most affectionate and diverse in Bush House, which confirmed his special place in listener’s lives. He was a very special broadcaster and he will be sorely missed.”
Gillett, who was born in Morecambe and brought up in Stockton-on-Tees, Cleveland, discovered several stars of world music.
They include Johnnie Allen’s Cajun version of Chuck Berry’s Promised Land, Youssou N’Dour, Salif Keita and the young singer of Portuguese fado music, Mariza.