Lottie collects her dad’s radio ‘Oscar’

The daughter of controversial radio DJ Gerry Ryan, Lottie, collected a lifetime achievement award on her father’s behalf amid a glittering cast of Irish media stars last night.

The young RTÉ presenter was on hand to collect the accolade as her late father became one of the first three people to be inducted into Ireland’s “radio hall of fame”.

The prize was announced at the PPI Radio Awards ceremony in Lyrath Estate Hotel, Co Kilkenny, last night.

Described by organisers as “the Oscars of Irish radio”, the annual event honours the top presenters, shows, interviews and musicians to grace the medium in this country.

Mr Ryan, Candy Devine of Downtown Radio, and Seán Bán Breathnach of Radio na Gaeltachta became the first trio to enter the hall of fame.

Fiona Stack of Radio Kerry also received the outstanding achievement award for her work with the provincial broadcaster over the past 12 months.

Speaking before Lottie Ryan collected her late father’s award during emotional scenes at the ceremony, PPI chief executive Dick Doyle said “the time is right” to honour people who have provided a long-term quality to Irish airwaves.

“The committee feel the time is right for a ‘hall of fame’ category for radio. It is important to have an ongoing commemoration to honour those who have dedicated most of their lives to entertaining the people of Ireland.”

Among the other hotly contested awards handed out last night were those for music programmes, news, sport and general shows.