'Noddy Holder bought me ice cream' Lancashire DJ known for Peter Kay's Car Share, Rock FM and PNE bows out

He’s the Lancashire radio DJ whose voice was heard on stations from Radio Caroline to Preston’s Rock FM and also starred in the BAFTA-winning Peter Kay TV show 'Car Share’.

But now he’s dropping the mic, sort of. After more than 40 years entertaining listeners across the UK and beyond, radio presenter Rob Charles has announced that he is stepping away from his regular role at Red Rose Radio and moving into semi retirement.

Rob, whose broadcasting career began in the 1980s, has become a familiar voice to generations of listeners.

From hospital radio beginnings and pirate radio days ,including Radio Caroline and KFM Radio in Manchester with Caroline Aherne, Craig Cash & Terry Christian, to some of the biggest stations in the North West, including Rock FM, Magic 999, Century Radio and Real Radio, Rob has built a career based on great music, personality and a genuine connection with his audience.

One thing he is not leaving behind, however, is Preston North End where he plays the music out at every home game.

Rob, who was also the Voice of Mike in the BAFTA-winning Peter Kay TV show 'Car Share', said highlights of his career included working with Noddy Holder.

He said: “ (Working with Noddy Holder was) one of my highlights & one of my favourite 70s bands. We worked at Century Radio. Always used to buy me an ice cream when the van came to the studios.”

Most recently, Rob bought back Red Rose Radio in 2021, continuing a journey that has seen him interview stars, create memorable features and bring laughter and companionship to listeners through the power of radio. He passed the station over in December 2024 to a new owner.

Rob said: “Radio has been my passion, my career and a huge part of my life for over four decades. I’ve been incredibly lucky to wake up every day and do a job I love. But now feels like the right time to slow the pace slightly, enjoy life and explore new creative opportunities.”

While stepping back from daily broadcasting, Rob is not hanging up the headphones completely. He still broadcasts from his own studio in Chorley to Costa Blanca & Costa Calida on TKO Radio with his popular afternoon show. He also plans to continue working on selected voiceover projects, creative radio productions and sharing his experience with the next generation of broadcasters.

He added: “I’m calling it semi-retirement because I still love radio. The microphone has been a big part of who I am, and I’m sure there are still a few more stories to tell.” Rob would like to thank every listener, colleague and station that has been part of his incredible journey.