Oldham legend Clint to step back from radio career after almost three decades

There has been an outpouring of love for Inspiral Carpets keyboard player and DJ legend Clint Boon following his announcement that he is stepping back from his radio broadcasting career after almost three decades.

Clint announced live on air yesterday (Monday) that he is to leave his current popular XS Manchester radio show.

In a more in-depth statement on his X page, Clint said: "After 28 years of being a radio presenter (the last 20 years doing five and six days a week), I’ve decided to step away from this amazing thing to focus on some of the other stuff going on in my life.

"My work in the world of radio has given me a sense of stability and security which I’ve never experienced in any other aspect of my career.

"Being in a band, being a club DJ… the consistency isn’t always there.

"Living on the edge (financially) is the norm.

"Radio gave me something solid to focus on in the centre of all the other crazy stuff I’ve done along the way.

"I’ve loved working with all the fantastic stations which have employed me over the years.

"Century FM, (Oldham-based) 96.2 The Revolution, XFM Manchester, Radio X, BBC Radio Manchester and, for the last seven years, XS Manchester. XS is a brilliant radio station and in many ways, quite unique.

"I know it’ll carry on going from strength to strength.

"The current listening figures are at an all-time high. I wish XS all the best and continued success in the future.

"I’m leaving on a VERY positive note, and this is 100% my own decision."

Clint has added that the Inspiral Carpets being back on the road this year has been a big factor in his decision, as well as the current popularity of his music-and-cake events Mrs Boon's Tea Parties in Stockport with his wife Charlie.

On top of that, Clint is also still busy out and about DJing at his 'Boon Army' club nights.

Regarding his continuing involvement with Madchester legends the Carpets, Clint added: "The Inspiral Carpets being back in action is obviously a big thing for me now.

"We’ll carry on gigging (and maybe writing new material) into 2024 and beyond."

There's been a huge reaction to Clint's news on social media.

Ace Britpop band Shed Seven, who the Inspirals have toured with many times over the years, posted on their X page: "Cheers for the support & friendship over the years Clint & All the best for your future plans."

Michael Batty posted: "Thanks for everything, Clint.

"Spent many an hour working away to your work.

"Whenever your name is mentioned on any Manc radio the shout is always BOON ARMYYYY!"

Oldham Masterchef champion Simon Wood added: "Good luck my friend, it’s been a pleasure every time I’ve been on t’radio with you."

Rich Lewis said: "Best of luck for the future Clint.

"I did like your Humans of XS Manchester podcast and hope that maybe something similar can return in the future."

Stuart Lonergan added: "Best of luck for the future and thank you for everything you've done so far Clint, loved listening to ya."

Locally-based fellow DJ and radio presenter Laura Beth said: "I got my start in radio from Clint and I’m so grateful for that!

"Sad to see him taking a step back from radio but pleased he’s spending more time with his family and excited to see what he gets up to next."

It's clearly not the end of the road for Clint, though, thankfully.

As well as thoughts of new music with the Inspirals, Clint has revealed that he is also looking at reissuing some of his solo work.

He has said he's also keen to start writing his memoirs, and in his X statement, he spoke of his excitement that next year might even see a movie project he has been working on get off the ground.

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