Michael Nelson-Compelling

On day one of my Reuters life in September 1968, the trainees were addressed in the boardroom at 85 Fleet Street by Messrs Long and Nelson.

Gerald, resembling Guy the Gorilla, was cynical, worldly wise and powerful. Mike was a total contrast but electrifying.

We were amazed to be told that Reuters might be "hot" rather than worthy but threadbare as we feared. 

Thus, on our first day we had an insight into the tensions below the surface that dominated the next 15 years of the company. But we also got our first glimpse of the man who, by and large, created a financial data powerhouse out of an old, traditional news agency.

It is hard to convey just how compelling Mike was at Reuters. ■