UK National News - Norris McWhirter succumbs to heart attack at 78

20 April 2004

Norris McWhirter succumbs to heart attack at 78

Co-founder of the Guinness Book of Records Norris McWhirter has died today after suffering a heart attack.

The 78-year old was reported to have taken ill while playing tennis at his Wiltshire home yesterday.

The co-founder of the Guinness Book of Records with his brother Ross in the mid-1950s, both made regular appearances in the early 1970s on the long-running children's TV show 'Record Breakers' hosted by Roy Castle.

During the programmes, the McWhirters would answer from memory unrehearsed questions from the audience on record breakers.

Norris continued appearing until 1994, although he had ceased editing work on the Guinness Book of Records by 1986, he acted in an advisory editor role until 1996.

His twin brother Ross McWhirter, an outspoken critic of the IRA, also known for his right-wing political outlook, was assassinated in 1975. He was shot dead after announcing a substantial reward leading to the capture of IRA bombers.

Both brothers had enjoyed success in sports and had worked as sports commentators.

In a statement today the family said that Norris was "energetic to the last".

Norris McWhirter is survived by his wife Tessa, son Alasdair and daughter Jane.

(SP)