Neil McIntee (1955-2020) – Obituary
Fleet World Group is deeply saddened to report the passing of friend and colleague Neil McIntee, following a short battle with cancer.
A highly respected and knowledgeable automotive journalist, Neil studied at the University of Leeds, before starting a career in the music business as an A&R man. Among others, he discovered Lena Lovich, who’s single “Lucky Number” went to number 3 in the UK chart in 1978.
He got into motoring journalism in the passenger car market, working for Autosport, Autocar and Which Car? magazines. Neil moved to commercial vehicles in 1993, when he became the editor of What Van?. He held that position for more than 16 years, leaving to establish the VansA2Z website with current Fleet World advertising account director Kevin Gregory in 2010.
Neil was a very popular member of the commercial vehicle press, both with colleagues and with manufacturers. Having attended van and pick-up launches and exhibitions across Europe and beyond for many years, he was a highly skilled driver and an experienced editor. Yet, he was happy to share his expertise and knowledge with others, making everyone feel welcome and included.
On a more personal note, it was always a pleasure to spend time with Neil, whether tackling unknown city streets behind the wheel of a van, discussing digital camera technology or simply finishing a bottle of red as we watched the sunset on a far-flung launch event. Seeing his name on a list of attendees meant that it was going to be a good trip. A great journalist, a great driver and a great friend.
Everyone at Fleet World Group would like to send their sincere best wishes and condolences to Neil’s wife Sirpa, and to all of his family and friends at this time.
6 Comments
-
Tim Campbell01. Jul, 2020
Well said Dan. Neil was a great person and a joy to have on a press trip. He will be sadly missed by all
-
James Davis01. Jul, 2020
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Neil’s passing. I was fortunate to have known him, be interviewed by him and most importantly shared laughs and a few drinks with him and his colleagues over the years. With a cheeky glint in his eye and a grin on his face he was always an absolute pleasure to be around. Work hard, play hard. The van industry has lost a legendary spirit and energy and we’ve all lost a most wonderful, warm and congenial spirit. RIP my friend. Big love to Sirpa, family and friends JD
-
Terry Steeden30. Jun, 2020
Well said Dan.
A great character that will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him
Terry
-
Sirpa McIntee29. Jun, 2020
Thank you for a nice article Dan
Sirpa xx
Anne-Marie Chatterton20. Jul, 2020
Steve Banner is right – the CV world will not be the same without Neil. I had the privilege of working with him and also spending time with him and Sirpa. We once watched a gory Shakespeare play together and Neil couldn’t stop laughing and got told off for taking photos. Oh boy, he will be missed on every launch and van event for a very long time.I hope any up and coming CV journalists got to meet Neil – try and be like him and you will go a long way. So sad. Take care Sirpa. xx