John Hume Jnr. pays tribute to late journalist and biographer Stephen Walker
John Hume Jnr. has paid tribute to the late BBC reporter Stephen Walker who has passed away at the age of 61.
The long-standing former BBC NI political correspondent died on Sunday.
Mr. Hume Jnr., Chair of the John and Pat Hume Foundation said: “The Hume family and the John and Pat Hume Foundation wish to express our deepest sympathies to the family of Stephen Walker.
"Stephen was a courageous, professional and dedicated journalist who was a witness to a challenging history throughout the Troubles.”
As well as being an award-winning journalist Mr. Walker was a biographer of two of the most consequential figures of the peace process, John Hume and David Trimble.
"Despite facing a battle against illness, he wrote a superb biography about Dad and whilst doing so he became a great friend to the family.
"Our prayers are with his wife Katrin, his three children and his friends in journalism and beyond,” said Mr. Hume Jnr.
His former colleague Mark Carruthers broke the news on Sunday.
"So sorry to be the bearer of such sad news but the Walker family - Katrin, Grace, Jack and Gabriel - have asked me to let people know that
"Stephen passed away at home this morning surrounded by the people he loved and who loved him.
"He was a wonderful husband, father, brother and son, a fine journalist and author, and the very best of friends.
"We are all heartbroken, but grateful for his life so well and fully lived,” he announced on social media.