Les joined the board of Saint FM as treasurer in March 2000, shortly after our inaugural broadcast, which was for the new millennium. We were delighted that such a well-known and respected member of the Burnham community was not only prepared to join us but took seriously what we were trying to do for the benefit of our locality.
From that moment Les guided us not only financially but in every other way. He listened constantly and critically to our early, somewhat faltering efforts and made wise comments about our style and content. He was a shrewd adviser when we started to grow and expand and made crucial suggestions and warnings when we took the huge step of becoming a full-time broadcaster.
Les was a great champion of St Peter's and the young people of our town and saw the benefits to them of their unique access to a working radio station. That is why we are establishing a young volunteers' award in his name. Each year we shall be giving 'The Les Warder Award' to the youngster who has contributed the most to our radio station.
Recently Les suggested our slogan 'Maldon District's very own radio'.
Les was our very own adviser, counsellor, critic, encourager, sage and, above all, friend. We shall miss him a very great deal.