I was greatly saddened to read of the untimely death of former Journal editor Gareth Weekes.

An excellent journalist but, more importantly, a charming man of great integrity.

He knew everyone. Everyone liked him.

I arrived in Salisbury 35 years ago as a young reporter, launching the new BBC local radio station: a rival in news gathering.

Gareth was at every event I attended, and he went out of his way to welcome me and introduce me to people.

We remained in contact long after we both moved on.

I learned much from Gareth’s gentle style, and will always be grateful for his warmth and wisdom.

The most important stories, he counselled, never come from news releases; they come from listening to people.

He was, very possibly, the best editor this newspaper has had. 

Paul Clifton

BBC South Today