Award-winning Caithness reporter retires after 47 years
A long-time journalist with a passion for all things Caithness this week put down his notepad after retiring from the John O’Groat Journal.
Gordon Calder said he had seen a multitude of changes in the industry over the last 45 years, but that the “dedicated and professionalism” of the staff has remained a constant.
Reflecting on his career, Mr Calder said: “Over many years, I have covered a multitude of stories and events, met some wonderful people and characters along the way, worked with some fine journalists and editors and have enjoyed the whole experience.
“It has been a privilege and an honour to have played a part in reflecting and reporting what has been happening in Caithness and north Sutherland in one way or another for over 45 years. I have changed a lot in that time and so have the papers.”
He added: “The changing technology means circulation of the print papers is falling – in line with the national trend – and there is no doubt that the industry will have a digital future and newspapers will, at some point, be a thing of the past.
“But whatever the format, there will always be news to report and deadlines to meet. That is the essence of what the job entails and will not change. Neither will the dedication and professionalism of the staff doing the work whether in print or on the website.”
Mr Calder began work at the Groat and Caithness Courier in September 1977. After taking a year out from May 1988, he worked as a freelance reporter for a time before rejoining the titles in 1992.
He won the 2005 local reporter of the year award at the Highlands and Islands Press Awards. The presentation was made by Patricia Ferguson, then the Scottish Government minister for tourism, culture and sport, at the press ball at the Newton Hotel in Nairn in February 2006.
Mr Calder retired from his post on Thursday, May 16, 2024 – nearly 47 years after he penned his first story.
John O’Groat Journal editor John Davidson said: “It has been a pleasure to work alongside Gordon during my 17-plus years with the company, including the last three-and-a-half as editor of the Groat.
“Gordon has been absolutely dedicated to covering the important news from across Caithness and north Sutherland since before I was born – just – and that experience and professionalism will be sorely missed by myself and the rest of the team.
“He also knows how to turn his hand to the more quirky stories and fascinating features, as well as having the knack of keeping a level head at all times – not to mention his extensive contacts book.
“We wish Gordon all the best in his retirement and hope he can cope without the constant pressure of deadlines every day!”