Journalism has lost a giant and a gentleman. I have lost a dear friend and mentor, to whom I owe so much. Those who knew Martin Townsend will remember him as a creative genius, a maverick editor, and an unparalleled scoop-getter. He also wrote like a dream. He cared deeply about his readers and always had the courage of his convictions. He championed better mental health before it was fashionable and wrote an incredible book about his late father, which won a @MindCharity award. He was a formidable talent spotter who nurtured more careers than he ever cared to mention. There is nothing he didn’t know about music. He read countless books, watched an enormous amount of telly and drank endless cups of tea, the record player always on in the background. He was a lover of ties, fountain pens, leather brogues, and of course @ChelseaFC. He adored his wife Jane, his sons Benedict and Oliver and his daughter Cordelia, who are in our thoughts and prayers. I’m so grateful to have had him in my life and shared so many laughs. He was one of the funniest people I have ever met. I loved him so much and will miss him terribly. Thank you for everything, MT. Rest in peace ❤️
