Derek Foster -Former Yorkshire Post news editor.

(From Yorkshire Post)

DEREK Foster, who has died at the age of 80 after protracted illness heroically borne, was a consummate professional who combined all that that entailed with a shrewd mind, sharp intellect and gentlemanly demeanour. In 1969 he became news editor of the Yorkshire Post, which he remained until his retirement at 65 in September 1989. He was awarded the OBE in the same year.

He was, however, more than that, and for those 20 years was the engine room of the Yorkshire Post, his pivotal role recognised by the editor, the late John Edwards, who made him assistant editor (news) in 1970, and associate editor, head of the news room in 1981. Derek would have been deputy editor but for a house rule which insisted that the deputy editor be younger than the editor.

Obliged to observe it, Edwards told Derek, apologetically, that he would have to show the "new boy" the ropes.

If anyone could, Derek was the man.

For some 15 years he compiled crosswords for Women's Post under the pseudonym "Delphi", and for the same period of time was responsible for the Saturday general knowledge crosswords in the main paper.

Born in Grimethorpe, he developed an early interest in journalism, and at Hemsworth Grammar School it was certainly known to his fellow pupils, including Audrey Welch. It was she who told him that there was a vacancy in the news room of the local Hemsworth weekly and, aged 15, Derek joined as a cub reporter, but was soon working on a paper in York.