Top Photographer Mervyn Dowling Passes Away

It is with great regret that I have learnt this morning of the passing of my friend, our colleague and distinguished past chairman Mervyn Dowling.  Mervyn was in hospital with what appeared to be a recurrence of a previous health problem and was awaiting tests but sadly passed away early this morning.  Mervyn was a key man in keeping the Northern Ireland Press Photographers’ Association going and progressing its development through difficult times. He stepped in to take over at the helm when the Association was drifting and his energy, enthusiasm and drive brought us back on course to the strong position we are in today.   Mervyn worked for the Lisburn Star before joining the Belfast Telegraph where he became their senior photographer throughout ‘The Troubles’.   Mervyn always had style and was immediately recognisable on the ground when he went out on a job. A superb photographer, his stoic wit and charm both socially and professionally made it a personal and professional pleasure to work alongside him and to call him friend. A fun loving family man, Mervyn always brought the sun with him wherever he went and he will be sadly missed.  May I extend my deepest sympathy and that of the Association to his lovely wife Renee and daughter Alison and the family circle.

Alan Lewis
(Chairman NIPPA)