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Journalist who started his own paper dies at 95

A Lancashire journalist who started his own paper in between spells with his local titles has died aged 95.

Bob Rimmer was born and brought up in Fleetwood and began working with Blackpool daily The Gazette after leaving school at 14 where he worked his way up the company ladder.

He later joined forces with a business partner to launch the Fleetwood Advertiser but returned to The Gazette in the 1950s when he worked at the title’s Fleetwood office.

Bob made it to the rank of news editor working on news stories for both The Gazette and the Fleetwood Chronicle and is best remembered for his coverage of the old Fleetwood Borough Council and Fleetwood Rugby Club. He was also a member of Fleetwood Catholic Club.

In retirement, he stayed in the Fleetwood area but eight years ago moved to Yorkshire to be closer to his children.

His daughter Beth said: “He saw enormous changes in Fleetwood, particularly in the fishing industry.

“He loved the beach in Fleetwood and when we used to go back to visit he always wanted to walk along the beach at Rossall Point.

“He missed Fleetwood but he was very happy in Harrogate. He made a new life for himself and he joined Harrogate Chess Club at the age of 90 which was quite amazing.”

He is survived by his three children Beth, Barbara and John. His funeral takes place tomorrow at St Aelred’s RC Church, in Harrogate.

Comments

Jim Brennan (12/02/2009 12:31:48)
Good old Bob ! A life in hackery does take its toll,and it’s always a pleasure to read of someone still batting to a ripe old age. As a youngster of 88, and still at it as a freelance(and an active 65-year NUJ member) I’m contacting octogenarian working hacks to
swap experiences and exchange tips for survival in today’s freelance jungle.
Jim Brennan