Remembering David Gow: A Legacy in Journalism and Europe

David Gow, a distinguished journalist renowned for his insightful reporting on education and European affairs, passed away at the age of 80 due to a heart attack. His career spanned several decades, during which he contributed significantly to The Guardian, covering pivotal social, economic, and political issues.

crypto Born in Edinburgh, David was raised in York by his English mother, Eve (née Mumford), who served in the Women’s Royal Air Force during World War II, and his Scottish father, Robin, who worked in the insurance sector. He excelled academically, earning a scholarship to St Peter’s School in York. In 1964, he pursued higher education at Worcester College, Oxford, where he obtained a degree in French and German.

David's journalism career began in 1969 when he joined the Scotsman as a graduate trainee. His timing coincided with a period of significant political change in the UK; the Conservatives, led by Edward Heath, came to power, initiating negotiations for Britain’s entry into the European Economic Community (EEC).

Shortly after joining The Scotsman, David became its first European correspondent, a role that was crucial as the UK navigated its entrance into the EEC in 1973. His versatile reporting saw him transition to labour correspondent and eventually to London editor, interspersed with a brief stint at Thames Television’s Weekend World.

During his time covering European affairs, David formed a significant connection with Sue Lewis, a member of George Thomson’s cabinet, who had also worked at 10 Downing Street under Harold Wilson. Despite suggestions from Labour party circles that he consider a position as an aide to Neil Kinnock, Wilson’s successor, David chose to follow his journalistic path. In 1980, he married Sue, and they welcomed their daughter, Gemma, into the world.

In 1989, David took on a pivotal role at The Guardian, where he focused on education and key developments in Germany amidst the backdrop of the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991. His fluency in German enabled him to nurture a vast network of contacts across Europe, enhancing his reporting credibility.

After a brief period as Wales correspondent, David transitioned to the paper’s business and industrial desk in London, before moving to Brussels. His expertise in European business solidified his reputation as a leading voice in the field.

Tragedy struck in 2001 when Sue succumbed to cancer, leaving David to navigate life as a single parent. Soon after, he was called upon to substitute for The Guardian’s Wall Street correspondent in New York during her maternity leave. This opportunity arose in a particularly intense period marked by the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.

During his time in New York, David was introduced to Gayle, the widow of literary scholar John Cairncross, who had been associated with the infamous Cambridge spy ring. David, who was unfamiliar with many people in the city, found companionship with Gayle, and after a courtship largely conducted through transatlantic emails, they married in 2002.

From 2004 until his retirement in 2012, David served as the European business editor for The Guardian, working from Brussels. His insights and analyses during this time were pivotal in shaping the paper’s coverage of European affairs and business.

David Gow’s legacy is one of a committed journalist who not only reported on significant events but also engaged deeply with the social and economic issues of his time from a left-wing perspective. His contributions to the media landscape, particularly in the realms of business and European affairs, will be remembered long after his passing.

In conclusion, David Gow’s life and career reflect a steadfast dedication to journalism and a profound understanding of the complexities of European politics and business. His influence extends beyond his written words; it lies in the relationships he forged and the insights he imparted throughout his illustrious career.