Tributes paid to former Grampian TV news anchor John Duncanson

Tributes have been paid to former Grampian TV newscaster John Duncanson, who has died aged 80.

He was a prominent fixture on television sets in the 1980s and 1990s, when he was the main anchor of evening news show North Tonight.

Mr Duncanson was well known for his trademark “oidhche mhath” sign-off from the air each night – meaning “goodnight” in Gaelic.

STV North news editor Donald MacDonald said Mr Duncanson died this afternoon “surrounded by family” after a short illness.

He described the journalist as a “consummate professional”.

Desperately sad to learn of the death, aged 80, of former Grampian TV news presenter John Duncanson. He passed away this afternoon after a short illness surrounded by his family. A consummate professional who, from 1980-98, was main anchor of Grampian’s news show North Tonight pic.twitter.com/1uRirGISYq

— Donald J MacDonald (@DJMacDSTV) October 25, 2020

SNP MP for Gordon, Richard Thomson, said: “John’s was a distinctive voice in broadcasting in the north of Scotland with his trademark “oidhche mhath” sign-off each evening.

“For many people of a certain age across the north, John’s was the voice which delivered the news with authority and professionalism, anchoring North Tonight as well as special reports such as the coverage of the build-up to the Cup Winners Cup Final in Gothenburg.

“John will be much missed in north of Scotland life and my thoughts are very much with those closest to him.”

John Duncanson, who has passed away at the age of 80, was the anchor in the North Tonight studio (alongside @Anna_Soubry) when the Dons won in Gothenburg. pic.twitter.com/2pMle9iURa

— Here We Go! – The Aberdeen FC Podcast (@AFCHereWeGo) October 25, 2020

Aberdeen Central MSP Kevin Stewart described Mr Duncanson as a “Grampian TV legend,” adding: “John was a one off, had time for everyone and loved Scotland.”

Graham Barron, treasurer of Peterhead Scottish Week, wrote online: “So very very sad to hear this! John was a keen supporter and helper at Scottish Week in Peterhead when he stayed in the town.

“A true north-east legend.”