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Former sub-editor dies following short illness

A retired regional press sub-editor has died at his home following a short illness aged 62.

Robert McNee was a well-known face among the Glasgow journalism scene having worked for the Evening Times from 1968 until his retirement two years ago.

He was also the title’s motoring correspondent which took him all over the world testing cars, including one occasion during the 80s where he convinced a group of motoring hacks on a press trip to travel 400 miles across America to find the city of Glasgow, Kentucky.

He argued that it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the birthplace of Kentucky bourbon but upon arrival they discovered Glasgow was a dry city and that the nearest watering hole was a further 70 miles.

Born in the Shawlands area of south Glasgow, Robert was known for his mentoring of young sub-editors.

In retirement, he took to exploring his native city by picking a different bus route and then walking along it to enjoy hitherto unseen parts of Glasgow.

Robert also held a number of elected posts in the National Union of Journalists and message of sympathy came from New York and France when news of his death emerged.

  • A full tribute to Robert can be read on heraldscotland.com.