RIP Aengus Fanning

Today brings the sad news that Aengus Fanning, one of the most influential figures in Irish journalism, has lost his battle with cancer at the age of 69.

He is survived by his wife Anne and his three sons, and leaves an indelible mark on Irish culture and society as a whole.

Hailing from Tralee, Aengus Fanning was born into journalism, with his family owning local newspaper The Midland Tribune.

Upon graduating from UCC, he became Agriculture Correspondent of the Irish Independent before rising to News Analysis Editor during the Haughey-Fitzgerald era. He took over the reigns of the Sunday Independent in 1984, replacing Michael Hand as editor.

In this capacity, he established himself at the top of Irish journalism, and turned the paper's fortunes around, overtaking their competitors in the process. A controversial character, he was a friend of the late Veronica Guerin, and published the likes of Guerin, Eamon Dunphy, Eoghan Harris and former Hot Press writer Declan Lynch over the years. He was also known for nurturing young writers' talents.

Away from the typewriter, he was a fierce sports fan, representing Kerry in football during his youth. He was a big jazz enthusiast and clarinet player, a fact he talked about during an interview with Hot Press several years ago, where he also opened up about his life and career. May he rest in peace.