Pioneering Journalist And Crediton Courier Founding Editor Sue Read Has Passed Away At Age 76
The community of Crediton mourns the loss of Sue Read, a pioneering journalist and former editor of the *Crediton Courier*, who passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday, November 17. Sue, who dedicated nearly five decades to the local newspaper and its community, leaves behind a legacy of tireless service, inspirational leadership, and unwavering commitment to truthful reporting.
Sue Read was instrumental in the growth of the *Crediton Courier*, guiding its transformation from a modest monthly publication to a widely respected weekly newspaper with a robust digital presence. She retired earlier this year, marking the end of an illustrious career during which she oversaw groundbreaking changes in the newspaper industry, including the shift from traditional production methods to modern digital workflows.
Her career as a journalist began humbly in Okehampton, where she was educated, before she moved on to work for regional newspapers. She later became the features editor of the *Express and Echo*. Sue’s association with the *Crediton Courier* began when she co-founded the paper in the early 1970s. Her sharp editorial vision and deep connection to the community turned the Courier into a vital local institution.
Over the years, Sue reported on an extraordinary array of local events, ranging from council meetings to community gatherings. Her ability to capture the heart of local stories earned her the trust and respect of her readers. She was a familiar face at countless events, camera in hand, always keen to shine a light on the people and places that defined Crediton.
Sue’s contributions to Crediton extended far beyond journalism. Her dedication to community service earned her numerous accolades, including the Crediton Town Council Plate for Services to the Town in 2000 and the Rotary Club of Crediton’s Citizen of the Year Award in 2017. These awards reflected her profound impact on the lives of the town’s residents, both as a journalist and a community advocate.
In 2004, Sue sold the *Crediton Courier* to Tindle Newspapers Ltd but continued to contribute as a reporter, exemplifying her enduring commitment to her craft. Her personal life, however, was not without tragedy; she lost her partner, Fred Saunders, in a devastating accident in 2017. Despite this, Sue remained a pillar of resilience and strength within her community.
Current editor Alan Quick, who worked alongside Sue since his work experience days in the late 1970s, expressed his sorrow at her passing. “Sue taught me everything I know about journalism. Her dedication to the town and its people was unparalleled. She had her finger on the pulse of the community and was widely respected for her professionalism, accuracy, and kindness. Crediton has lost not just a remarkable journalist but one of its own.”
The *Crediton Courier*, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this December, was a milestone Sue had eagerly anticipated. Her family has confirmed that the planned celebrations will continue in her honor, reflecting her enduring passion for the newspaper and the community it serves.
Sue is survived by a family who has expressed their gratitude to the staff at Bow Church, the ambulance service, and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital for the care she received during her final days.
As Crediton reflects on her life and contributions, it is clear that Sue Read was more than a journalist—she was a cornerstone of the community. Her legacy will live on in the stories she told and in the hearts of the many lives she touched.
