A former Welsh newspaper boss has died following a long period in hospital.

John McPherson, who spent around 40 years as owner of Barry and District Newspapers after World War Two, died on 29 January at a Cardiff hospital, aged 89.

John had been asked by his Scottish grandfather to manage the businesses, now owned by Newsquest, just after the Second World War, where he served in North Africa with The Royal Engineers.

He retired from the business aged 65 and was said to have been a determined businessman during his career.

John, who lived his retirement years in Barry, was a Mason and a keen golfer.

A funeral service and cremation took place in Barry on 9 February and attracted a big turn-out.

He was described by family friend Chris Stanley as a ‘very nice, gentle, gentleman.’