Edward Stourton - Requiescat In Pace

Ed Stourton 3.12.2011 Wiki Image

Edward Stourton, the prominent Catholic broadcaster, journalist and author, died on 18 July at the age of 68. He had been suffering from prostate cancer. His career included a decade on BBC Radio 4's Today programme and the station's weekly religion and ethics programme Sunday. He was a founding member of Channel 4 News and wrote several books.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, retired Archbishop of Westminster and former President of the Bishops' Conference, said: "Over many years I have taken part in programmes and interviews with Ed Stourton. Today I am deeply saddened to learn of his death. I will be praying for the repose of his soul, as is the practice of our Catholic faith, a faith which he cherished and valued deeply."

Cardinal Nichols praised Ed Stourton's qualities as a broadcaster: "Whilst always ready to push and probe, Ed was never anything but courteous, warm and deeply perceptive in his questions and comments. These are important values in communication and broadcasting.

"His death, then, is a significant loss to this work in these fields. I will miss his presence and his voice. May he rest in peace. May his family and friends find consolation and hope in the faith which so robustly sustained him."

Papal biographer and journalist Austen Ivereigh noted on X: "Such sad news. Ed was brilliant in every way, and so kind and gracious. He was the UK's best known Catholic journalist, and a giant of broadcasting. How we will miss him."

BBC foreign correspondent John Simpson said: "Very sad to hear of the death of my good friend Edward Stourton, a charming, gentle, highly intelligent man. He was horribly treated by the BBC when he was sacked as a 'Today' presenter, but bore it with Christian forgiveness and found other ways of expressing his great talents."

Christine Allen, CAFOD Director and CEO, said: in a statement "Ed was a respected journalist whose Catholic faith guided his life and work. A gifted reporter and commentator, he was known for his sharp insight, intelligence, and his strong interest in international affairs. I met him many times and he was always wonderful company and had a great sense of humour. He will be greatly missed by everyone who worked with him or was interviewed by him."