There are too few heroes in commercial radio news. But, Brian Shallcross was one of them.
I received the sad, sad news of his death earlier this afternoon. He'd been suffering from cancer.
A political correspondent on TV and radio for more than thirty years you could tell how connected and how respected Brian was as you strolled the hallowed corridors of the Commons with him. MPs would greet him with a smile or a wink, “Hello Brian, I haven’t forgotten about our interview later” I’d hear them say.
My team of young journalists in the Capital Radio Group, later GCap Media, respected him too. Hugely. It might have been because of his knowledge and great sense for sniffing out stories. Or, perhaps it was his limitless energy and enthusiasm. Then again, maybe it was because despite his vast experience, he remained an approachable, good humoured and thoroughly lovely man.
One of my fondest memories of Brian was at the Capital Radio News Conferences about five years ago (there was a bit more money around then!) Surrounded by the journalists who loved him, he played an active part in sessions by day and acted as unofficial photographer by night. Brian sent me many pictures but only one of himself from the conferences and I’ve published it here. This is how I will remember Brian, as a happy man.
He was happy doing his job, all his colleagues knew that. But family was the other love of his life. As well as political correspondent, Brian was a husband, father and grandfather. During the Capital days we’d often discuss family over lunch and a bottle (or two) of wine. I remember asking him for advice when I became a dad. My heartfelt thoughts go out to Brian’s family at this time.
I’d encourage you to leave your own tributes below and if you were lucky enough to work with Brian, why not raise a glass of red to him tonight? Raise a glass and celebrate the life of one of commercial radio news’ few heroes and a true gentleman.
We'll miss you Brian.
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