David FitzGerald

BBC Radio Devon presenter, Fitz, loves to play a round - of golf that is!

Don't worry if Fitz sounds a bit muffled on the radio, he's probably just stuffed his mouth with food!

He delights in introducing us to some of the finest chefs from Devon, who more often than not bring along samples of their delicacies.

In fact Fitz is truly a 'people person' - he just loves meeting new guests.

"We've had local pipers playing live in the studio to celebrate Burns Night and met one of the writers of children's favourite Shaun the Sheep, who happens to live in Devon," he said.

"I've also been through what turned out to be a very painful beauty session - all in the name of radio!"

Any expert who appears on the programme is also put to good use - answering your questions.

"Guests are happy to offer their advice. It could be anything from debating the merits of various hangover cures with Stephen Barrett, or making sense of Home Information Packs," said Fitz.

"I don't think I'll carry on with leg waxing though."

Out and about

Chaos doesn't just reign supreme in the studio though. Fitz is often to be found out and about at various events around the county.

The knack of getting myself in the 'right' place at the 'wrong' time even got me into Trivial Pursuit as a question David FitzGerald

"We've been to food festivals in Dartmouth and Tavistock, as well as braving crowds of Christmas shoppers in Exeter and Plymouth.

"Do come and say hello, but with a microphone and something to eat I may have my hands full" he says.

History

David first began broadcasting on commercial radio in the early 1980s, before moving to television.

Working first at TSW and then Anglia Television, Fitz made the move to Sky News in the mid-1990s and was at the front of nearly every major disaster for nine years.

"From the trial of OJ Simpson to the death of Princess Diana, the knack of getting myself in the 'right' place at the 'wrong' time even got me into Trivial Pursuit as a question in 1995!"

This inspired Fitz to come up with some questions of his own, and has since contributed thousands of questions for quizzes.

Fitz tries for a 'hole in one' on one of the local golf courses

This mine of useless information often finds its way into his programmes as well.

Fitz also finds time for writing, and has scripted TV favourites such as The Bill and Spitting Image. He's also written a children's book, A Nod from Nelson, with Falklands veteran Simon Weston OBE.

Devon has always been very important to Fitz though, and he returned in the early 2000s. As well as working in local radio again, he writes regularly for local newspapers and Devon Today magazine.

Despite his 'fuller figure', he's into sport too, regularly enjoying a game of golf on one of Devon's ranges.

"And on Saturdays I have to rush down to Home Park when Plymouth Argyle are at home and announce the players as they come on.

"If you see me, give me a wave!"