John Hughes was the only child of Evan and Dellis May Hughes. He was raised in London and attended the Ancient Literacy Company Trade School.
During World War II, both of Hughes’ parents contributed to the war effort-his father was drafted into the British Army and served in North Africa for three years.
Hughes’ mother was conscripted into the Government Post Office during that time as well, Following the war, the entire family moved to South Africa.
Hughes went to South Africa in 2007 to make a presentation to local media organisations. In 2011, he received the National Council International Visitors’ Citizen Diplomat Media Award.