Laurence Grech writes:
Yesterday I learned of the death of Charles Grech-Orr, who was editor of The Times for 25 years, with particular sadness. Not only was he my highly respected first cousin, son of my late Uncle John and Aunt Martha (née Orr), but also, as assistant editor of the newspaper at the time, the one who actively encouraged me to join Allied Newspapers, whichI did as a cub reporter back in 1963 as a 15-year-old just out ofsecondary school.
Throughout the formative years of my career Charles was always there with advice and encouragement, which he kept up when he became editor two years later.
By nature cautious and prudent, Charles nevertheless bravely faced the challenges of the times, the increasingly turbulent political situation of the 1970s and 1980s, and the violence, culminating in Black Monday, October 15, 1979, when the Times building was set on fire and gutted by supporters of the then Labour Prime Minister, Dom Mintoff.
On that occasion he showed remarkable courage as he made his way out of the burning building with the rest of the editorial and other staff.
Undaunted by this, he was determined to uphold the newspaper’s tradition of never missing an issue, and managed, with the able support of his colleagues, and against all odds, to have the newspaper published from the Nationalist Party press, as it was to be for the next three weeks or so until part of Strickland House could be used again.
A man of sound Christian principles, Charles unfailingly upheld the values which have always inspired The Times and The Sunday Times, whose objectivity and credibility were widely admired even by those who disagreed with their stand on various issues.
Unfailingly courteous and polite, as editor he was firm but understanding with his staff, to whom he delegated responsibilities according to their abilities.
Charles was a dutiful son and an exemplary family man devoted to his wife Grace and their children Caroline, Karl and Marisa, their spouses and his beloved grandchildren. To them I offer my sincerest condolences and assure them of my prayers for the repose of his soul.