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War veteran and regional daily photographer dies aged 93

neil-donalA photographer and war veteran whose career with a regional daily spanned five decades has died aged 93.

Tributes have been paid to Neil Donald, who spent 36 years with the Birmingham Evening Mail between 1948 and 1984.

Prior to working for the Mail, Neil served in the Royal Air Force, having joined up in 1940 after lying about his age.

Based in Lincolnshire, he flew 30 missions over Germany as a radio operator in Lancaster bombers.

Former colleague Roland Rowley said: “Not only was Neil a brilliant photographer but he was a tremendous friend. He was a loving, family man who will also be remembered for his kindness and sense of humour.

“Neil was Godfather to my daughter Fay and we will always treasure the times our families spent together.”

Around the Mail, Neil was known for his ‘Wing Commander-style’ moustache and dapper style of dress.

Ex-Birmingham Mail photographer Paul Delmar said: “Neil always had real style. I knew him as ‘The Gent’ – and as a golf legend.”

Neil was born in Glasgow and, together with his younger brother and sister, spent part of his childhood in boarding schools while his father worked for an oil company in Burma.

After the war, he never claimed his medals – but was able to proudly display them after Edward, his step-grandchild, applied for them on his behalf.

Neil is survived by his widow Sue, and his funeral takes place at Lodge Hill Crematorium, Birmingham, at 10.30am on Friday.

followed by a wake at Harborne Golf Club, of which Neil was a member for many years.

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  • September 24, 2016 at 1:33 pm
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    RIP the man who led by example..Note: Old Photographers Never Die they Just Go Out Of Focus.

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