'Unfortunate' Billy Butler update as 'health takes top priority'
The radio presenter is being looked after at Arrowe Park Hospital
An update has been given on broadcasting legend Billy Butler after he was hospitalised. The 83-year-old posted on his social media last week, thanking his fans for their well wishes and support after he fell ill with a chest and stomach infection.
Taking to Facebook, the dad said: "Thank you for all your get-well wishes. I'm very touched by your concern. I'm in Arrowe Park with a chest and stomach infection, but my Plums are perfectly ok."
Thousands in the city grew up listening to the host on both his BBC Radio Merseyside and Radio City shows. He has been a familiar voice to generations, sharing music, stories, and unforgettable moments throughout his decades-long career.
A “different side” to the media personality was due to be shown to fans at an upcoming Q&A-style event. Billy was set to be interviewed by Toxteth’s Paul Hession as part of the Rainbow Toffees' ongoing In Conversation series. The Rainbow Toffees' is made up of Everton's LGBTQ+ supporters.
However, Paul told the ECHO: “We’d like to send our warmest wishes to Billy Butler for a speedy and full recovery. It’s unfortunate that the event scheduled for May 15 at BOXPARK had to be cancelled, but Billy’s health and well-being are the top priority.
“We know how much everyone was looking forward to it, and we appreciate your understanding during this time. We’re hopeful that once Billy is feeling better, we’ll be able to reschedule and come back with an even more memorable experience. Thank you for your continued support and well wishes.”
Paul and the Rainbow Toffees team are now focusing their efforts on a new event at the same venue. On Friday, May 30, the Baltic Triangle venue will host singer Pia Notoriyas between 12pm and 3pm.
The singer, who lives in Formby, will be joined by “inspiring and powerful” guest speakers such as Emily Waldron, Greyson Kempster, and Scarlett Rose as they come together in an act of trans solidarity.
Paul added: “In light of the growing hostility and challenges faced by our trans brothers and sisters, we’re dedicating our next community event to standing firmly with them.
“At Rainbow Toffees, we believe that an attack on one part of the LGBTQ+ community is an attack on all of us. Now, more than ever, it’s vital that we show solidarity, celebrate resilience, and uplift every voice.”
The event comes after the Football Association’s U-turn on its longstanding policy regarding trans inclusion in sport. The governing body announced that, from June, it will prohibit transgender footballers from participating in the women's game in England.
This reversal follows legal counsel in light of a recent Supreme Court ruling that legally defines a woman by her biological sex alone.
Previously, players were required to lower their testosterone levels, though the FA maintained the right to exclude anyone for safety or fairness reasons. Everton FC’s LGBTQ+ supporters group said they were “deeply disappointed and saddened” by the announcement.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Paul previously told the ECHO: “This decision stands in direct opposition to the values of inclusion, fairness, and equality that should be at the heart of the beautiful game.
“Football is a space where everyone should feel welcome, respected, and free to be themselves. This blanket exclusion of trans women sends a harmful message, that some people do not belong.
“We know the importance of representation, community, and belonging, especially for LGBTQ+ fans and players, and this ruling undermines years of progress made toward a more inclusive sport."