A news broadcaster who spent over 20 years as a reporter for ITN, Sky News and GMTV has died aged 56. Rae Stewart sadly passed away on Tuesday, June 20 due to illness.
His former colleague Stephen Jardine announced the news, stating: "My best friend Rae Stewart has died after an illness. He was just 56. Rae was a proud son of Tain and a brilliant journalist, author, husband, father and friend.
"All my thoughts today are with him and his beloved family.” The Daily Mirror reports STV special correspondent Bernard Ponsonby added: “Rae was regarded as a gentleman when that term had gone out of fashion.
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"It reflected his courtesy and good manners. But that should not be taken to mean he was stuffy. He conducted himself with a relaxed irreverence and more than a hint of charm that made him popular with colleagues and public figures alike.”
Rae was born in Tain in the Highlands and worked as a reporter for more than 20 years before he became a communications consultant working for businesses, government departments and major institutions. He also worked as the head of communications for the Iraq Inquiry and was press secretary to Nick Clegg during the Liberal Democrat leader's time as deputy prime minister.
He published his first novel, The Vibe in 2017 which was partly inspired by his travels around India. However, the former journalist retired early in July 2022 due to his ill-health.
Former STV reporter Iain Mackenzie also paid tribute to his colleague, describing him as a "brilliant journalist". He said: “Learned today of the death of Rae Stewart, one of the most brilliant TV journalists I ever worked with.
“Had the privilege of working with him on STV’s Seven Days and Sunday Live. He was sharp, laconic, thoughtful, but childishly enthusiastic. Total comfort in front of the camera, adored by colleagues.
"This will be a very sad day for all who worked with and knew him.“
