Oh of how the mighty have fallen…literally.

Bob Francis, the one time Harley-Davidson riding Adelaide night time talkback king had traded in the big hog for the type of mo-ped favoured by posties – a ride more befitting his grandpa status and a sign that he was mellowing, at least on his bike if not on the air.

But two Fridays ago he swerved to avoid a dog, fell off his bike and broke his leg in several places, so badly that metal pins and plates needed to be inserted.

Tonight, September 17th, would have marked his 50th anniversary in Radio, a milestone that sadly he’ll miss. Confined to bed for the most part, he has had to down-trade vehicles again, this time to an electric cart made for invalids just so he can get to the shops.

According to FIVEaa GM, Paul Bartlett, one way or another, Francis will be back behind the microphone by next Monday either in the studio or via landline from his bed.