The UK journalism community is mourning the loss of Chris Rees, a revered former senior executive at the Daily Mail and The Mail on Sunday, who has died at the age of 95.
Known affectionately to many as Cyril, Mr Rees enjoyed a long and distinguished career in newspapers, leaving a significant mark on two of Britain's most prominent titles.
A Transcontinental Career in Journalism
Chris Rees was raised in Bournemouth and took his first steps into journalism at a Kent newspaper, the Chatham Observer, which was part of the Kent Messenger Group.
In a bold move in 1964, he migrated to Sydney, Australia, with his young family. His talent quickly secured him the position of news editor at the city's biggest-selling newspaper, the Sydney Daily Telegraph.
After eight years abroad, he returned to the UK in 1972 and joined the Daily Mail. His career at the paper flourished as he held several key posts, including night editor, managing editor, and associate editor.
Pioneering The Mail on Sunday and Later Life
In 1982, Mr Rees moved to the newly launched The Mail on Sunday as its deputy editor. He was an integral part of the leadership team that saw the publication's circulation soar past the remarkable milestone of two million copies.
He officially retired from his executive role in 1990 and relocated to the New Forest to enjoy his passions for sailing, golf, and travel. However, he maintained a vital connection to his old newspapers, serving as their first-ever Readers' Representative, an ombudsman role he held for eight years.
Beyond the newsroom, Mr Rees was a dedicated director for over 30 years of the Bournemouth School Charitable Trust. This organisation raised the funds to build the Sir David English Sports Centre, a tribute to the late Daily Mail editor.
He also demonstrated a strong commitment to his local community, supporting Lyndhurst Meals on Wheels for 20 years.
A Lasting Legacy
Chris Rees is survived by his wife, Beverley, his two children, Sally and John, and his grandsons, Nathan and Jackson.
His passing marks the end of an era for British journalism, remembering a leader who helped shape two major publications and who continued to serve his community and the industry long after his official retirement.
