Former Tameside Reporter picture editor Charlie Sutcliffe has died, following a short illness, aged 88.
Born
in the Newton Heath district of Manchester in 1916, Charlie trained as
a joiner. Following an accident at work, which led to the loss of use
of his right hand, he joined the Daily Herald in Manchester as a
process worker and learned photography at night school.
He became the Reporter’s first staff photographer when he joined the paper in 1946.
For most of his career he wore a glove on his injured hand but this did not affect his ability to take great pictures.
He
became known as the ‘photographer with the glove’. He had many contacts
and on several occasions scooped the nationals by gaining access to
areas which were barred to the press.
Charlie was very well known
in the area and would spend many evenings and weekends attending
functions. He was on first name terms with all the local mayors, MPs,
councillors and members of the emergency services. He went on exercises
with the Territorial Army and photographed many royal visits and famous
people. He was totally dedicated and committed to his job.
Long
before the invention of the mobile phone, Charlie would chase fire
engines, often at great speed, to ensure he always got the best
pictures, passing the advanced motoring test to aid this pursuit.
During
his 35 years with the Reporter , he was an active union member and was
presented with life membership on his retirement in 1981. He helped
many reporters and photographers during his career. Many moved on to
become household names, including Harold Evans. He will be sadly missed
by his ‘boys’ or, as his staff later became known, his ‘angels’.
David Dent
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