BBC DJ Charlie Gillett has passed away aged 68.

Gillett, who is credited with discovering the band Dire Straits and bringing world artists such as Youssou N'Dour to a wider audience, died in a London hospital yesterday after contracting a disease of the autoimmune system and suffering a heart attack.

Peter Horrocks, director of the World Service, said: "Charlie Gillet was an inspiration whose spirit of adventure and passion for the rich diversity of global music opened the ears of the world.

"His broadcasts brought together music and radio fans from far flung corners of the globe. His postbag was one of the biggest, most affectionate and diverse in Bush House which confirmed his special place in listeners' lives.

"He was a very special broadcaster and he will be sorely missed."