John McVicar was a man of many talents and accomplishments. He began his educational journey at Eton College, where he honed his skills and prepared himself for the challenges that lay ahead. He then went on to attend Oxford University, specifically Christs Church, where he earned his Master of Arts degree in 1948.
During World War II, McVicar served his country with distinction, rising to the rank of Lieutenant in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. He saw action in the war, fighting bravely from 1939 to 1945. In 1942, he published his book "Sub-Lieutenant", a testament to his experiences during the war.
After the war, McVicar continued to pursue his passion for writing. He published several books, including "Nelson's Band of Brothers" in 1951, "One Man's Meat" in 1953, and "Murder Story" in 1954. He also worked as a newscaster for ITN from 1956 to 1958, and held the office of Chancellor of the Navy Records Society from 1957 to 1960.
In 1958, McVicar ran for office in the Rochdale by-election, representing the Liberal party. He also ran in the 1959 general election, again as a Liberal candidate. Despite not winning the election, McVicar remained a prominent figure in British politics.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, McVicar continued to work as a commentator and TV presenter for various networks, including the BBC, ITA, ATV, ABC, and Yorkshire TV. He appeared on popular shows such as Panorama, Face the Press, 24Hours, Midweek, and Newsday. He also wrote several books during this time, including "Ten Rillington Place" in 1961, "The Trial of Stephen Ward" in 1964, and "Very Lovely People" in 1969.
In the 1970s and 1980s, McVicar continued to write and publish books, including "Pursuit: the chase and sinking of the Bismarck" in 1974, "A Presumption of Innocence: the amazing case of Patrick Meehan" in 1975, "The Portland Spy Case" in 1979, "Menace: the life and death of the Tirpitz" in 1979, and "Wicked Beyond Belief" in 1980.
McVicar's later years were marked by continued writing and publication, as well as his work as a commentator and TV presenter. He published several more books, including "The Airman and the Carpenter" in 1985, "On MY Way to the Club" in 1989, "Euthanasia: the good death" in 1990, "Truth to Tell" in 1991, and "In Bed With an Elephant: a journey through Scotland's past and present" in 1995.
Throughout his life, John McVicar was a man of many talents and accomplishments, leaving behind a legacy of writing, broadcasting, and public service.
