THE Editor of the Fermanagh Herald, Ray Sanderson, has said his almost 26-year career with the newspaper and the North-West News Group has been “long but exciting” as he retires this week.

A native of Enniskillen, Ray joined the Fermanagh Herald as a senior reporter in July 1999 bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge of news and sport to Belmore Street.

He worked as a Sports Editor with the newspaper, developing sporting content in both print and online platforms, before being appointed as Deputy Editor in 2000.

In February 2021, Ray was appointed as Editor of the Fermanagh Herald, where he oversaw a major drive to redevelop the newspaper.

“It has been a long but exciting almost 26 years,” Ray said.

“I have seen a lot of changes within the industry and within the [North-West News] Group and it was good to be part of the continual development of the company.

“Achieving the position of Editor was a source of great satisfaction for me after all of my years in the industry and with the company. It showed trust in my ability as a person and as a journalist.”

During his time as Editor, Ray took an active role in helping develop news coverage and readership in the print and online format, while building many relationships with the Fermanagh public and further afield.

While he recognises that the industry has ‘changed dramatically’, he is thankful for all of the support that the local community has shown to the Fermanagh Herald over the years.

“As Editor, as well as my role to write and produce a newspaper, it was to open the door to everybody whether it be to write, celebrate success or share their views,” he said.

“I tried to deal with everybody on an even keel and gave the community the stories that mattered most to them. Our job is to tell the stories. I think that we have done that and will continue to do that.”

While he retires after 26 years of distinguished services with the Fermanagh Herald and the North-West News Group, Ray is going to ‘reset’, while enjoying time with his family.

“I’m see this as a time to reset. It has been my life for a long time,” he added. “I take this opportunity to thank all who have helped and guided me on my journey over these years in journalism”

Paying tribute to Ray for his dedication and commitment to the Herald, former editor and Group Managing Director, Dominic McClements, described Ray as an exceptional journalist and newsroom leader who gained the respect of industry colleagues and readers alike.

“Ray’s quiet and unassuming style has gained him many admirers in what is often a fast moving and pressurised business. He always put others first, whether that was a junior member of staff who was learning the trade of journalism, or the reader of the Fermanagh Herald,” Mr McClements said.

“His passion and interest in promoting the best of Fermanagh was always his priority and as the paper heads towards its 125th anniversary, he leaves it in an exceptionally strong position and the company, directors and all his colleagues salute him for his exceptional service.”

Group Editor of the North-West News Group, Nigel McDonagh, also congratulated Ray on his service to the Fermanagh Herald, while wishing him all of the best for his next chapter.

“Ray’s leadership has helped steer the Fermanagh Herald through times of great change,” he said.

“With his understanding and connection to the local community, he brought care and credibility to our content. We’re grateful for his service and wish him every happiness in retirement.”

Tributes have also been paid to Ray from across the Fermanagh community.

Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, John McClaughry, remembered Ray for his commitment to media in the county.

“Ray has been involved in local journalism for a lifetime and during my time growing up, he has always been involved in local papers. He will be a big loss to the community,” he said.

Tom Elliott, Chairman of Ballinamallard United Football Club, described Ray as being “extremely reasonable”, recalling his dedication to developing the sport section in the newspaper.

“I always found Ray, whether it in football or through the media, extremely reasonable and very fair in his dealings. I always had a good relationship with him and saw the best in him.”

UTV News presenter, Paul Clark, also recalled Ray’s strong passion for journalism.

“It has always been a delight and joy to meet with Ray. We have so much common ground as writers and journalists and the love that we have for Fermanagh,” recalled Mr Clarke.

“I’m going to miss him, but as I said to him recently, journalists never retire. There’s always one more story, so come on Ray – don’t let us down.”

Noelle McAloon from Enniskillen BID credited Ray’s commitment to supporting local businesses.

“Ray has been a supporter of Enniskillen BID. We were a very new concept and from our point of view, he got the premise of where we were coming from in supporting the High Street,” said Ms McAloon.

“He was more than approachable and whether it was a difficult or an easy conversation, he was always approachable.

“One of his legacies is the strength and prominence of the Fermanagh Herald Business Awards, led by him. From our point of view, it felt like Ray celebrated business in Fermanagh and we thank him for that.”

Executive Director of Belleek Pottery, Martin Sharkey, said Ray was a “great friend” to many in the business community in Fermanagh.

“Ray was a great friend to us at Belleek Pottery and a popular figure in the business industry. We’ll miss having the craic with him at the Fermanagh Herald Business Awards,” said Mr Sharkey.

Local businessman, Pat Blake, also congratulated Ray on his career.

“I recall Ray sitting beside me at class in first year at St Michael’s College and I knew he was destined for great things. Well done, Ray, on your career in journalism,” said Mr Blake.