'He was such a gentle soul, a gentleman' - Tributes pour in for former newspaper editor John Griffiths who has died at his Telford home
Tributes have been paid to John Griffiths, former editor of the Bridgnorth Journal who has died after more than 40 years in journalism.
A journalism career spanning over 40 years began in 1973 on his home town paper, the Bridgnorth Journal. He went on to work for the Shropshire Star and the Express & Star before the wheel turned full circle and he took up the post of editor of the Journal in November 2004.
The 71-year-old was also a well-known motoring correspondent over many years, and one of his great passions was his motorcycle.
Richard Ewels, former deputy editor of the Express & Star who knew John both as a friend and work colleague, said: "He was a lovely person and a fantastic professional in his work. He did not cut corners and his work was to the highest possible standard, whether he was writing a motoring review or sub editing.
"And the other side of his personality was that he was such a gentle soul, a gentleman, a mild-mannered person who could not do enough to help people."
Long-term companion Jill Core said: “John was an incredibly kind and humble man whose heart went out to anyone in need. We shared amazing times together.
"Countless journalists who have worked with John will testify to his talent, incredible knowledge and wit. But it was his humility and kindness which struck everyone.
"Many trainees have paid tribute to John for the help he gave them both professionally and personally. He gave willingly of his time and asked for no recognition and absolutely nothing in return.”
Fellow motoring writer and friend Syd Taylor said: "With a common interest in cars, motorbikes, and aviation, we rubbed along well together. At all levels, his humanity and kindness shone through."
Broseley-born John attended Bridgnorth Grammar School and worked briefly at COD Donnington as a civil servant before applying for the Express & Star journalist training scheme. He was posted to his home turf of Bridgnorth as a trainee reporter and after three years there under the indenture system he transferred to the Shropshire Star at its Wrexham and Oswestry offices, before returning to Bridgnorth where he would later become chief reporter.
He moved to the Shropshire Star's head office at Ketley before training as a sub editor and national copytaster, transferring to the Express & Star in Wolverhampton around 1996 working on features and supplements.
During his career John reported on numerous high-profile stories, including the kidnap and murder of Shropshire's Lesley Whittle, and was with the press team which went to the Falklands to cover the aftermath of the 1982 conflict.
As motoring editor of the Express & Star, he attended the launches of new models and wrote reviews. He was a member of the Midland Group of Motoring Writers. His Bridgnorth Journal editorship role would later expand to include editing the Ludlow Journal. He retired in 2014, but continued to contribute motoring articles.
A divorcee, he leaves a sister, Paula, and nephews Steven and Anthony.
His hobbies included being an Army Cadet in his youth, where he picked up archery and clay pigeon shooting, which he continued as an adult. He also played badminton and squash.
John had been heartbroken by the death of his beloved pet dog Honey and had complained of feeling unwell shortly before his death. He died of natural causes.
Funeral details are yet to be announced.
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.