THE death has been announced of Sir William McAlpine, the chairman of Railnews Ltd and the patron or president of many other railway organisations.
Sir William, who had been ill for some time, was 82.
He was well known for his railway interests, including ownership of the Flying Scotsman locomotive, which he later sold.
He was formerly a director of the McAlpine construction business, and was also well known for his personal motto: “Life is not a rehearsal”.
Railnews managing director Cyril Bleasdale said: "He was a great friend to the railway industry, becoming chairman of Railnews 21 years ago. He made a big contribution to the newspaper's survival and success.
"Everyone at Railnews will miss him very much."