James Mates: English Newsreader, Journalist, and Europe Editor at ITV News

James Mates is a highly regarded English newsreader and journalist, currently employed by ITN where he presents for ITV News and serves as Europe Editor. Born on 11 August 1961, Mates has built an impressive career spanning over three decades, covering some of the most significant global events. From reporting in conflict zones to anchoring major news bulletins, he is widely recognized for his professionalism, insightful analysis, and dedication to journalism.

Early Life and Education of James Mates

James Mates was born on 11 August 1961 in London, England. Raised in Maidenhead, Berkshire, he grew up in a family closely connected with public service and politics. His father, Michael Mates, was a Conservative Member of Parliament, which gave James early exposure to political affairs and the importance of leadership in society.

Mates was educated at Marlborough College, a prestigious independent school, before completing his A-levels at Farnham College. He later attended the University of Leeds, graduating in 1983 with a degree in International History and Politics. His academic background, particularly in global affairs, provided a strong foundation for his future career as an international journalist.

During his university years, he spent the summer of 1981 in Washington D.C., working as a researcher for U.S. Republican Senator John Tower on the Senate Armed Services Committee. This early experience in international politics gave him valuable insights into diplomacy and global issues—skills he would later apply as a journalist covering world events.

James Mates Career Journey at ITN and ITV News

James Mates began his career with ITN (Independent Television News) in 1983 as an editorial trainee. His dedication, sharp reporting, and clear delivery quickly earned him recognition. By 1985, he was working as a scriptwriter in the ITV newsroom, and a year later, he became a general reporter.

Key Career Milestones

1987 Zeebrugge Disaster: Mates was among the reporters covering the tragic ferry disaster, which solidified his reputation as a dependable journalist.

Tokyo Correspondent (1989): He was appointed as ITN’s correspondent in Tokyo, covering major stories in Asia.

Moscow Correspondent (1991–1993): His work in Russia earned him international awards, including the Prix du Press Club de France and a Silver Medal at the New York Film and Television Festival.

Diplomatic Editor (1993–1996): Mates covered global conflicts such as the Kosovo crisis and was the only television journalist in Kigali during the 1994 Rwandan genocide, reporting stories that helped ITV win a BAFTA award for its coverage.

Washington Correspondent (1997–2001): He reported on pivotal U.S. events, including the September 11 attacks.

Europe Editor (2012–present): Appointed Europe Editor at ITV News, James Mates continues to report on political, economic, and social developments across Europe, including the EU and Brexit.

James Mates as a Newsreader and Presenter

In addition to his work as a correspondent, James Mates is also a familiar face on ITV News as a presenter. He has anchored various news bulletins, including the ITV Lunchtime News, ITV Evening News, ITV Weekend News, and Sunday News bulletins. His calm demeanor, clarity in delivery, and authoritative voice have made him a trusted newsreader for British audiences.

James Mates Age

As of 2025, James Mates is 64 years old. Born on 11 August 1961, his age reflects a career of over 40 years in broadcast journalism. Despite the challenges and demands of international reporting, Mates continues to contribute actively to ITV News, showing no signs of slowing down. His longevity in journalism is a testament to his passion, resilience, and dedication to keeping the public informed.

James Mates Family

Family has always been an important part of James Mates’ life. He is the son of Michael Mates, who served as a Conservative MP for Hampshire. This political background influenced James’ interest in international history and politics.

James Mates is married to Fiona, and together they have three children: Leo, Flora, and Charlie. Despite his high-profile career, Mates has always maintained a relatively private personal life, keeping his family away from unnecessary media attention. Based in London, the family balances his demanding journalism schedule with a grounded home life.

James Mates Net Worth

As a senior journalist and newsreader with ITN and ITV News, James Mates has earned a respectable income throughout his career. While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, his estimated net worth is believed to be between £1 million and £5 million. This wealth comes from his decades-long career as a correspondent, presenter, and Europe Editor.

Beyond salary, Mates has also been invited as a keynote speaker, event host, and facilitator at conferences, which contributes to his earnings. However, he is not known for a lavish lifestyle, and most reports suggest he values professionalism and family life over public displays of wealth.

James Mates Wikipedia

The James Mates Wikipedia page provides a comprehensive summary of his life and career. It highlights his work as an English newsreader, journalist, and Europe Editor at ITV News. The page outlines his early education, career milestones at ITN, awards, and his reporting during historic world events such as the Rwandan genocide and September 11 attacks.

Wikipedia also confirms details about his personal life, including his family background, education at the University of Leeds, and his roles as a correspondent in Tokyo, Moscow, and Washington. For readers looking for a quick overview, the Wikipedia entry serves as a reliable snapshot of his biography, though detailed articles like this provide more in-depth context.

Awards and Recognitions

Throughout his career, James Mates has received numerous awards for his courageous and high-quality journalism:

Prix du Press Club de France for his Moscow coverage.

Silver Medal at the New York Film and Television Festival.

BAFTA Award for ITV’s coverage of the Rwandan genocide, where Mates played a central role as the only journalist reporting from Kigali at the time.

These recognitions highlight his dedication to bringing important stories to the world, often from dangerous and challenging environments.

James Mates’ Contribution to British Journalism

James Mates has played a vital role in shaping British broadcast journalism. His ability to explain complex issues in simple terms has made him a trusted voice for viewers across generations. Whether reporting from war zones, analyzing European politics, or presenting daily news, Mates embodies the values of accuracy, impartiality, and professionalism.

Personal Interests Outside Journalism

Beyond his career, James Mates is passionate about bridge, a card game that requires strategy and intellect. He regularly attends the Andrew Robson Bridge Club in West London and has competed at a high level, including qualifying for the North American Pairs finals in Vancouver in 1999. This interest reflects his analytical mind and love for problem-solving.

Conclusion

James Mates is more than just a newsreader—he is a seasoned journalist with a career that has taken him from Tokyo to Moscow, Washington to Kigali, and across the capitals of Europe. With over 40 years of experience, he remains one of the most respected figures in British journalism.

From his age (64 years old) to his family life with wife Fiona and three children, his estimated net worth, and his extensive coverage documented on Wikipedia, Mates continues to inspire audiences and aspiring journalists alike. His calm, authoritative presence on ITV News ensures that James Mates will remain a trusted name in British journalism for years to come.