Journalist Brian Hutton dies suddenly aged 46

Journalist and Irish Times contributor Brian Hutton who died suddenly aged 46.

The journalist Brian Hutton has died suddenly at the age of 46.

He became ill on Saturday and passed away that afternoon.

Mr Hutton was formerly the deputy news editor of the Press Association (PA) news agency for more than 10 years.

From Derry, Mr Hutton began his career at the Belfast Telegraph in 2003. 

He did freelance work for the Daily Mirror, providing northwest coverage until 2004.

He was also a regular contributor to both the Irish Examiner and the Irish Times.

Irish Examiner editor Tom Fitzpatrick said: "We are sad to learn of the death of Brian. Irish Examiner staff who worked with him during his time at PA, or met him in recent years, recall him being a gentleman, brilliant reporter and a loyal colleague. Our condolences to his family, colleagues and friends."

The northern editor of The Irish Times, Freya McClements, said he was "the best of journalists, the best of friends and the best of men."

She told the Irish Times: "In the last week alone Brian featured prominently in reports of the release of the State papers and it is fitting that his byline was above another article in the paper on the day he died.

"As a journalist, Brian was curious, quick-witted and with a keen news sense; he was also warm and genuine.

"Above all, he was a devoted father to his daughter Issy."

Editor of the Irish Times, Ruadhán Mac Cormaic, wrote: "Very sad news. Brian was an excellent journalist, and he'll be missed by all of us at The Irish Times"

Ireland Editor of PA David Young added: "A great journalist and a great man. Proud to have counted Brian as a friend and colleague. Gone too soon."