A journalist who became editor of a number of Kent newspapers, before branching out into PR, has retired.

Gerald Hinks (66) – also known as Gerry – became the youngest newspaper editor in the country when he was appointed to the position at the Sheerness Times Guardian aged 23.

He later moved to take charge of newspapers including the East Kent Gazette, North East Kent Times, Chatham News and Chatham Standard.Gerry also worked at the Manchester Guardian, the Daily Mail, a number of evening newspapers, a Sunday paper and many weeklies.

Later on in his career he took a job in the press office at Gillingham Council and then Medway Council, when the unitary authority was changed.

Public relations unit head Liz Dickens said: “There are few who can match him for news sense, diligence, knowledge, wisdom, and patience.”

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