Camilla Tominey has paid tribute to the journalist Martin Townsend following the tragic news of his recent passing.

A prominent British journalist with over four decades of experience, Mr Townsend was described as a “dear friend” and “mentor” by Camilla.

Camilla’s heartfelt tribute began: “Journalism has lost a giant and a gentleman. I have lost a dear friend and mentor, to whom I owe so much.

“Those who knew Martin Townsend will remember him as a creative genius, a maverick editor, and an unparalleled scoop-getter.

“He also wrote like a dream. He cared deeply about his readers and always had the courage of his convictions.”

Praising his trailblazing impact, she continued: “He championed better mental health before it was fashionable and wrote an incredible book about his late father, which won a @MindCharity award.

“He was a formidable talent spotter who nurtured more careers than he ever cared to mention.

“There is nothing he didn’t know about music. He read countless books, watched an enormous amount of telly and drank endless cups of tea, the record player always on in the background.

“He was a lover of ties, fountain pens, leather brogues, and of course @ChelseaFC. He was one of the funniest people I have ever met.”

Camilla rounded off her statement: “I’m so grateful to have had him in my life and shared so many laughs. I loved him so much and will miss him terribly.

“Thank you for everything, MT. Rest in peace,” she signed off.

Before long, a number of Camilla’s followers shared messages of condolence of their own, including Mr Townsend’s wife and fellow journalist Jane O’Gorman.

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She penned: “Thank you for your lovely words Camilla. He adored you too and was so proud of everything you do xxx.”

Elsewhere, one Instagram user replied: “I’m so sorry to hear this, Camilla. Martin was a great man and a superb journalist,” followed by a heartbroken emoji.

“That was a lovely tribute Camilla to your friend RIP,” a second added while a third typed: “Camila, I am sorry for the loss of your friend and fellow journalist.”

Meanwhile, a fourth weighed in: “So sorry for your loss Camilla xx.” (sic)

Mr Townsend was best known for his work at the Sunday Express, where he served as Editor for 17 years from 2001 to 2018.

During his tenure, Mr Townsend spearheaded and brought to the public a number of exclusive stories, including the news of Prince Harry’s romance with Meghan Markle.

Prior to his Sunday Express days, Mr Townsend served as Editor at OK! magazine in the late nineties.

His CV also boasted the role of Showbusiness Editor of YOU magazine at The Mail on Sunday.

Away from Fleet Street, Mr Townsend penned the award-winning book The Father I Had, a candid account of growing up with a father suffering from bipolar disorder.

He also co-authored the autobiography of publisher Richard Desmond, named The Real Deal.