Camilla Tominey of GB News has expressed a heartfelt tribute to her “dear friend and mentor,” Martin Townsend, following his passing. She described him as a towering figure in journalism whom she “loved so much and will miss terribly.” Sharing her sentiments on social media, Tominey reflected on Townsend’s esteemed career. As a former editor of the Sunday Express with over 40 years of experience, Martin was celebrated for his fearless reporting, sharp instinct for breaking news, and vibrant personality.

Martin Townsend passed away earlier this month at the age of 65 due to pancreatic cancer. In her touching homage, Camilla stated, “Journalism has lost a giant and a gentleman. I have lost a dear friend and mentor, to whom I owe so much.” She further elaborated on his profound impact on the media, saying, “Those who knew Martin Townsend will remember him as a creative genius, a maverick editor, and an unparalleled scoop-getter.” His contributions extended beyond his journalistic prowess.

“He also wrote like a dream. He cared deeply about his readers and always had the courage of his convictions,” Tominey remarked.

Camilla also underscored Martin’s enduring influence, particularly in areas that were once considered off-limits for many journalists: “He championed better mental health before it was fashionable and wrote an incredible book about his late father, which won a @MindCharity award.”

The book, titled The Father I Had, provides a candid and powerful narrative of his childhood experiences with a father who battled bipolar disorder.

It earned critical acclaim and helped spark important conversations long before such topics became mainstream.

She also reflected on the personal side of the man behind the headlines: “He was a formidable talent spotter who nurtured more careers than he ever cared to mention.

“There is nothing he didn’t know about music. He read countless books, watched an enormous amount of telly and drank endless cups of tea, the record player always on in the background.”

Martin, she recalled fondly, had a love of “ties, fountain pens, leather brogues, and of course @ChelseaFC,” and was, in her words, “one of the funniest people I have ever met.”

Camilla ended her tribute with a raw, heartfelt farewell: “I’m so grateful to have had him in my life and shared so many laughs. I loved him so much and will miss him terribly. Thank you for everything, MT. Rest in peace.”

Support poured in from fellow journalists and fans alike, including Martin’s wife, writer Jane O’Gorman, who replied: “Thank you for your lovely words Camilla. He adored you too and was so proud of everything you do xxx.”

Another commenter simply wrote: “Martin was a great man and a superb journalist,” while others echoed condolences, calling Camilla’s tribute “lovely” and “beautiful.”

Martin Townsend’s career included an impressive 17-year run as Editor of the Sunday Express, where he broke major exclusives including the first reports of Prince Harry’s relationship with Meghan Markle. He also previously helmed OK! Magazine, and served as Showbusiness Editor at YOU Magazine.