Ray Hadley has paid an emotional tribute to brave veteran Mark Lang, who lost his battle with cancer on Tuesday.

Mark served in the army for 19 years and was an avid fan of Ray’s.

The 40-year-old former soldier wrote to Ray earlier in the year, revealing he’d been diagnosed with terminal cancer and only had six to 12 months to live.

He had one wish; to meet Ray in the flesh and witness how his show is put together.

Mark was welcomed into the 2GB studios in March and left a lasting impression.

“I met this bubbly, wonderful human being who knew before the end of this year he’d no longer be with us,” says Ray.

Sadly, Mark lost his battle with cancer on Tuesday. He took his final breath with his wife Kim and mother Deborah beside him.

Ray has paid tribute to the “brave, brave man”.

“I found the meeting with him over that day, that Tuesday, inspiring and found the support of his wife Kim inspiring.

“All I can do today is offer my condolences and acknowledge the brave man that I met in Mark Lang, thank him for his service.

“He served his country well and today we honour his memory.”

Click PLAY below to hear Ray Hadley’s emotional tribute in full

Ray’s touching words struck a chord with listener Ian, who was a friend of Mark’s.

Ian is passionate about reducing stigma around mental health issues in the military, a cause Mark strongly supported.

“I’m proud to say I’ve included his story in presentations already,” Ian writes.

“And will continue to do so.”

Click PLAY below to hear from Ian, Mark’s friend