Tuesday, August 04, 2009

Keith Macklin

I was sadden to learn of the death of my friend and former colleague, Keith Macklin.

I had the pleasure of working with Keith during my time at Rock FM / Magic 999 in Preston, the station he set up as Red Rose Radio in 1982.

He's worked as a reporter for local newspapers, national newspapers, was one of the first presenters of the BBC's regional TV news programmes `Look North West`, worked for Border TV, Yorkshire TV, presented on national radio, and of course Red Rose Radio.

He was the first Programme Controller of Red Rose, and was influential in establishing a strong commercial radio station that exceeded all expectations.

In the newsroom, Keith was the voice of reason, so well respected. Seemingly everyone in the sporting world knew Keith, and Keith knew them. His descriptive commentaries for Red Rose Sport were a joy to listen too, especially his partnership with the late Preston North End manager John McGrath who acted as his summariser.

Keith was a joy to be around, the calm voice of reason, thought and experience. Thanks for the memories, you'll be sorely missed.

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