Radio Shropshire DJ Vicki Archer dies aged 41

Ms Archer, who had a 20-year association with the BBC radio station, presented the afternoon drivetime show with co-host Adam Green.

The cause of her death is not yet known.

Shocked colleagues have paid tribute to the 41-year-old mother, describing her as a respected presenter who brought a a sense of fun to her shows.

The news was announced by presenter Eric Smith on Tuesday afternoon. He said thoughts were with the family of Ms Archer, who had young children.

Mr Smith told listeners: "Our much loved colleague, Vicki Archer, who has been part of your afternoons for many years, has died suddenly.

"She has been a part of this radio station for more than 20 years, a great presenter, great broadcaster who bought a wonderful sense of fun to her shows and behind the scenes in the newsroom."

Her co-presenter Mr Green was absent for today's show, which began with Eric Smith's tribute.

Mr Green and Ms Archer had presented the show together on Monday.

Mr Green said: "I am sad and numb. Vicki was a lovely human being with a big heart.

"She was kind, generous, creative, warm and friendly to all she met.

"In the eight years I have worked with her there wasn't a day when we didn't laugh out loud. My thoughts are with her beautiful children and family."

David Jennings, the BBC's head of regional programmes for the West Midlands, said: "We are heartbroken at Vicki's death.

"Everyone here at Radio Shropshire respected her as a great presenter and journalist, but so much more than that we loved the sense of fun she brought to her shows and the station.

"Her loss leaves a huge void. Our thoughts are with her family at this sad time."

After a childhood in the army with her family, Ms Archer settled with them in Shropshire.

She fell into radio, answering phones and working behind the scenes.

Ms Archer when to University to do a BA Hons in acting, financing her studies by working at The Pulse radio station, where she was given her first show.

She moved to Century FM and then onto her first breakfast show with Magic.

Returning to Radio Shropshire, she had presented the afternoon drivetime show since 2010. She also hosted a number of events, including the NHS Values In Practice Awards.