David Interviews French singer Mireille Mathieu

on his Radio 1 show 1968

At the microphone 1968

Born in Oxford, David Symonds spent a year at University but left prior to taking his degree. Moving to New Zealand, David started a career as an actor, but began working for NZBC news reading and general announcing, on TV and radio.

He returned to England in 1965, working firstly for the BBC Home Service as an announcer, later for the Light Programme, presenting the Sunday morning show Easy Beat.

Here he gained the moniker 'Golden Boy' and 'First of Many' due to his casual off the cuff quips, raving introduction to records and pirate style slogans such as 'your corporation station'. His style was originally cause for concern with BBC management but, due to listeners positive letters, he was able to continue.  During this time, he recorded shows for broadcast on RTL Radio Luxembourg.

From the launch of Radio 1, David Symonds presented his own early evening weekday show, which included interviews with major pop artistes of the time.

It is reported that Dave ran into trouble, and was sacked by Radio 1; for reading the national news......naked and under the influence!

He moved to the UK's first (legal) commercial radio station, Capital Radio, in 1974, to present the breakfast show.

Dave now owns his own radio station! It is 91.4 Coast FM in Limassol, Cyprus.

David's Show in (1968)

Cecilia (1970)