Doncaster Rovers fans urged to join minute's applause after death of city DJ

Martin Challoner, a former presenter on the city’s radio station Sine FM and who also presented shows on a number of other online stations, died at the weekend after being diagnosed with terminal liver cancer last year.

His son Aaron has asked Rovers supporters to pay tribute to his dad at this Saturday’s game against Wigan Athletic at the Eco Power Stadium.

He posted: “On Saturday, I encourage both sets of supporters to do a minute's applause for my dad on the 55th minute.

“He never saw his 56th birthday, but a minute's applause for 55 years of life would be appreciated

“Please share this with anyone who's going this weekend and also to any Wigan Athletic supporters as well.”

Details of Mr Challoner’s funeral have been announced as tributes continue to pour in.

The service will be held at Rose Hill Crematorium at noon on 9 Febuary followed by a gathering at Balby Bridge Club after the service.

Meanwhile, Doncaster radio station Sine FM has joined the tributes to Mr Challoner.

A spokesperson said: “It's really difficult to find the words when we lose one of the Sine FM family.

"We call it a family because that's what it is.

"We're not related through blood; we're related through a love of music.

"We pull together as a family and achieve something positive together, every day, every week, and every year.

“We lost a member of the Sine FM family this week.

"Martin Challoner wasn't just a presenter on the station though, he was an influential driving force for music in Doncaster for many years before and after.

“Outside of being a presenter, Martin remained a super fan of the station, always supportive and always dedicated to his music.

“We are saddened to hear of Martin's passing, and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.”

Mr Challoner had been recording shows up until a few weeks before his death.

A spokesperson for online station Studio 105 said: “We were very saddened to learn of the passing of friend, ex-colleague and brilliant DJ Martin Challoner - sincerest condolences from everyone here at Studio 105 .. May you rest in peace.”

Mr Challoner also presented a show on Revival Radio called Mixtape Flavas, presenting a show packed with reggae, ska, soul and hip hop music.

A spokesperson for Doncaster African Caribbean Support Group said: “Doncaster African Caribbean Support Group is saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Martin Challoner.

"His love of Black heritage music touched so many lives and brought people together. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

“Our condolences to all who loved and knew him.”

Another emotional tribute to Mr Challoner said: “One of our group, our friends, one of us.

“A local lad with a heart of gold and a beautiful family has lost his battle with cancer.

“Please take a moment to think of his wife and two sons who are left to continue in this cruel world without him.

“Sending love upto heaven for you Martin.

“Love you mate.

“Until we meet again.

“Rest in eternal peace.”

Revival Radio said Mr Challoner had begun DJ’ing in 1984 and a spokesperson described his show as “inspired by the 80s and early 90s - when everyone wanted a mixtape for their car, filled with floor-filler tunes mixed by their favourite DJ.

"From a time when DJ's travelled the country to find the latest white label imports and play them first - Martin C was one of those DJs.

"With a music collection that spanned the decades - from early ska, rocksteady and reggae, through breakdance, hip hop, funk, and soul to Acid Jazz and early House - Martin C played them all at clubs and festivals around the country - plus on radio stations in the UK, Greece and the USA.”

Local football club Murphys FC, which Mr Challoner was involved in for many years, has also organised a fundraising event for his family.

A spokesperson said: “Martin has been a big part of the club and a friend to many for several years, especially to the Doncaster football community.

"Being the kind hearted man that he is, Martin has requested that half of the funds raised go towards a cancer charity of his choice.”

The tournament is due to be held at De Warenne Academy, Conisbrough on January 31.

An online fundraising page has also been set up for Mr Challoner, who leaves a wife and two sons.

You can donate to the appeal HERE https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-martin-challoner-fundraiser