I was deeply saddened to hear that Alan Goode had died on Monday morning.

He was a fierce and successful newspaper editor who became managing director of the Western Gazette then the formidable chief executive of Bristol United Press, publishers of the Western Daily Press, Bristol Evening Post and a host of free weekly papers.

So trepidation followed when I was called from my modest desk at the Evening Post to his huge office on the top floor.

Happily Alan did not give me the sack but offered the editorship of the Mid Somerset Series, which he had just bought.

That was back in 1997 and I have been grateful to Alan for the opportunity ever since.

Working for him was a pleasure because of his wealth of experience, passion for newspapers and support for local journalists seeking the truth.

Alan did not suffer fools gladly but gave unqualified backing if he felt you were doing a good job.

After retiring in 2004, Alan provided the Wells Journal with community correspondent coverage for his home village of Chewton Mendip.

Every month or two we would meet for lunch, which was always wonderful fun with Alan, in different hostelries around mid-Somerset. His advice was wise, his stories hilarious and his face kept smiling despite increasing health problems.

Alan was a mentor for me and a friend I will never forget. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family.

Philip Welch