John started his professional radio career at Capital Radio In 1979, joining as the station’s Record Librarian. He went to become resident DJ on Capitals Cruiser, which showcased events all over London and the suburbs. John also DJ’d at Capitals famous Best Disco In Town, warming at London’s Lyceum Theatre in The Strand, warming up the crowd, for the likes of Greg Edwards.
John also presented several early morning shows on Capital 95.8 before leaving to host his own regular programme on Essex Radio in 1985.
John’s evening soul programmes achieved record station audiences and won numerous awards over a 15 year period, becoming legendary in Essex and making John Leech a household name. In addition to his Monday to Friday 7-10 pm programme, he established the Soul Night Special. A live touring show, once a month, showcasing big soul stars.
This popular event was always sold out with 2000 people attending large venues each month. Over a four year period over 150,000 people attended these various Soul Night Events in Essex
John has also worked for Chelmer FM, Dream FM, Invicta FM,
Corks 96 FM, Vibe FM.
Awards
THE NEW YORK FESTIVAL
Medals are presented in recognition of an outstanding achievement in radio programming
Entries are judged by panels of radio experts from broadcasting stations and companies throughout the world for their production values, organisation, presentation skills, professional excellence, creativity and use of the medium.
GOLD MEDAL John Leech Soul Show
GOLD MEDAL John Leech Soul and Dance Show
GOLD MEDAL John Leech Mix
GOLD MEDAL John Leech Experience
SILVER MEDAL John Leech Soul and Dance Show
SILVER MEDAL John Leech Experience
BRONZE MEDAL John Leech Soul and Dance Show
BRONZE MEDAL John Leech Experience
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SONY AWARD UK
WINNER For production of Music Documentary
Dance Rebellion
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PATER AWARDS AUSTRALIA Presented at World Expo Australia
For Professional Excellence In Radio, Arts and Science Worldwide
WINNER
Best Music Host
WINNER
Best On Air Personality
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NATIONAL BROADCASTING SCHOOL
(Principal – Michael Bukht)
CREDIT DIPLOMA
Where to listen to JOHN
Friday 7-10 pm John’s own show from saveoursoul.org.uk.
Sunday 2-6 pm The John Leech Soul Show. BBC East. Essex Norfolk Suffolk Cambridgeshire Northampton Three Counties Radio.
Wednesday evening 7-9 pm Zero Radio. zeroradio.co.uk