Remembering a Prominent Warrington Journalist: Tributes to a Man of Influence and Connections
Tributes have been pouring in for Ronald ‘Ron’ Peter Kirby, a former Warrington journalist and PR guru who passed away on August 18 at the age of 90. Kirby, who resided in Dorchester with his wife Carole and daughter Victoria, left behind a legacy of impactful contributions to various causes and communities.
Born in Liverpool, Ron Kirby’s journalism career took off when he began reporting for the Shrewsbury Chronicle after the outbreak of World War II. His passion and enthusiasm for journalism were evident from a young age, as described by a former colleague who hailed him as the most dedicated reporter he had ever known.
A Life Dedicated to Journalism and Public Relations
Kirby’s journalistic journey led him to become the news editor and later the editor of the Warrington Examiner at the remarkable age of 23. He then moved on to work for the Lancashire Evening Telegraph (LET), where he made history by being the first journalist to feature a regular column on space travel.
After his tenure with the LET, Kirby ventured into public relations, serving as the PR manager for Europe at Sime Darby, an international company based in London. His role at Sime Darby opened doors to new experiences in the Far East, including visits to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia, where he eventually met his wife, Carole.
During his time at Sime Darby, Kirby also became a guardian to the daughters of the Sultan and Sultanah of Kedah, Malaysia, further solidifying his connections to the region. His dedication and service to Kedah and the Kedah Royal Family were recognized in 2008 when he was awarded a Datoship (knighthood) by the Sultan, becoming the first Brit to receive the title Dato’.
An Influential Figure in Engineering and Public Affairs
Beyond his journalism and PR endeavors, Kirby’s impact extended to the field of engineering, where he served as the public affairs director for the Engineering Council for 13 years. Leveraging his Fleet Street contacts, Kirby played a crucial role in raising the profile of the council and promoting engineering excellence.
One of his notable initiatives was overseeing the Young Engineers for Britain competition, which attracted a large number of young participants tasked with designing and creating innovative engineering devices. Kirby’s efforts also extended to advocating for greater female participation in engineering through his role as deputy chairman of Women Into Science and Engineering (WISE), leading to a significant increase in the representation of women in the field.
Throughout his career, Kirby had the privilege of interacting with prominent figures such as Queen Elizabeth II, Margaret Thatcher, Prince Charles (now King Charles III), Princess Diana, and John Major. His dedication to British engineering was recognized with an OBE for his services, a moment of pride that he shared with his family during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
As a mentor and inspiration to many aspiring journalists and PR professionals, Kirby’s legacy transcends his professional achievements. His daughter, Victoria, fondly remembers her father’s unwavering support and guidance for those navigating their careers, highlighting his role as a source of inspiration and wisdom to many.
A Lasting Impact and Farewell to a Remarkable Individual
Ronald ‘Ron’ Peter Kirby’s impact on the realms of journalism, public relations, and engineering is a testament to his dedication, passion, and influence. His commitment to his craft and his contributions to various causes have left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
As the community mourns the loss of a prominent figure in Warrington journalism, tributes continue to pour in, reflecting the profound impact that Ron Kirby had on the lives of many. His legacy will live on through the memories and stories shared by those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with this remarkable individual.
The funeral arrangements for Ron Kirby are set to take place next month, offering an opportunity for family, friends, and colleagues to come together and pay their respects to a man whose presence will be deeply missed but whose influence will endure through the lives he touched.