Trevor Sturgess, a highly respected former business editor for the Kent Messenger Group and later a deputy lord lieutenant of Kent, passed away at age 78 on Friday evening at his home after breathing difficulties. His death has sparked tributes from colleagues, friends, and community leaders across the county, highlighting his lasting impact on journalism and local affairs.
Early Career and Rise in Journalism
Sturgess began his long career in journalism with the Kent Messenger Group in 1987, where he stayed for 26 years until retiring in May 2013. He built the group’s business desk in the early 1990s, starting from the Chatham offices of the former Kent Evening Post.
He co-founded the monthly publication Kent Business in 1993, which became a key source for commercial news in the region. His work earned him awards, including an outstanding contribution honor at the Kent Excellence in Business Awards in 2013.
Colleagues remember him as a dedicated professional who knew every major business leader in Kent. His stories often went beyond business circles, influencing wider discussions on the local economy.
Contributions to Kent Business and Media
As editor of Kent Business, Sturgess covered the heartbeat of Kent’s commercial world for decades. He reported on key events like the development of Kingshill business park, which transformed an old air base into a thriving hub despite initial opposition.
His contacts book was legendary, connecting him with managing directors, financial directors, and chief executives across the county. This network helped him deliver trusted and authoritative coverage that readers relied on.
Sturgess also played a role in promoting literacy through his trusteeship at the Acorns Read and Grow Charity after retirement. His efforts supported education initiatives that reached thousands of children in Kent schools.
In recent years, similar tributes have poured in for other veteran journalists, such as the emotional responses to the passing of figures in national media, showing the deep bonds in the industry.
Tributes from Colleagues and Community
Tributes have flooded in since news of his death broke. Ian Carter, chief operating officer of Iliffe Media, called Sturgess a hugely respected and influential journalist whose stories resonated widely.
Former KM Group chairman Geraldine Allinson praised him as a talented colleague who cared deeply about his work and team. She noted how every top business leader in Kent knew his name.
Long-time friend and former Medway Messenger editor David Jones shared his sadness, recalling over 30 years of working together and Sturgess’s total dedication.
Former Whitstable Times editor John Nurden expressed shock, mentioning a recent lunch they shared with another colleague just days before his passing.
- Ian Carter: “His exceptional business coverage was trusted, authoritative and his stories resonated far beyond the business community – he will be sadly missed.”
- Geraldine Allinson: “Trevor was an award-winning, talented well-respected journalist and a lovely colleague.”
- David Jones: “Trevor was totally dedicated to his role as editor of Kent Business and gave 100pc plus to the job.”
- John Nurden: “I was totally shocked to hear about Trevor’s death. We had lunch together in Faversham only on Tuesday.”
The Lord-Lieutenant of Kent’s office issued a statement expressing deep sadness, noting Sturgess’s warmth and popularity in the lieutenancy.
Role as Deputy Lord Lieutenant
After retiring from journalism, Sturgess took on the role of deputy lord lieutenant of Kent, a position he held with distinction. This ceremonial role involved representing the monarchy in local events and supporting community projects.
He helped organize royal visits and charity functions, strengthening ties between the crown and Kent residents. His involvement came at a time when Kent was seeing growth in business and infrastructure, areas he knew well from his reporting days.
Sturgess’s work in this role complemented his journalism background, as he often bridged business and civic duties. For instance, he supported initiatives like business awards that celebrated local innovation.
His passing aligns with a broader trend of honoring public servants in 2025, including recent recognitions for community leaders in other UK counties amid ongoing discussions on regional development.
Legacy and Impact on Kent
Sturgess leaves behind a legacy of insightful journalism that shaped Kent’s business landscape. His articles influenced policy discussions and helped spotlight emerging companies.
He is survived by family and friends who remember him as kind and committed. Funeral details are expected soon, with many planning to attend in tribute.
| Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
| Joined Kent Messenger Group | 1987, stayed 26 years |
| Founded Kent Business | 1993, monthly publication |
| Retirement | May 2013, with awards |
| Deputy Lord Lieutenant | Post-retirement role promoting community |
| Charity Work | Trustee for Acorns Read and Grow |
This table highlights the milestones that defined his career and contributions.
His story reminds us of the vital role journalists play in community building, especially in a year marked by economic shifts in the UK, including rising business investments in the southeast.
Share your memories of Trevor Sturgess in the comments below, or pass this article to others who knew his work. Your thoughts help keep his legacy alive.
