Notable Reigatians

Major General Philip Henry Mitchiner
(RGS 1902-1906)

An academic surgeon at St Thomas' Hospital, London, Mitchiner had extensive civilian experience, as well as being a military surgeon, serving in the UK, Middle East and Eastern Europe. In 1916 Mitchiner was deployed to Serbia, where he distinguished himself, not just as a surgeon, but also in aspects of Army health, command and administration. He was awarded a CBE in 1938. Mitchiner wrote or co-authored numerous medical papers recording everything from instruments for operations to carcinoma of the breast. Several images of Mitchiner hang in the National Portrait Gallery.

Norman Cook
(RGS 1974-1979)

Fatboy Slim, born Norman Quentin Cook on July 31, 1963, in Bromley, England, is a renowned DJ, musician, and record producer. Initially a bassist in the punk band The Housemartins, Cook transitioned to electronic music in the early '90s, adopting the moniker Fatboy Slim. He gained widespread fame with his album You've Come a Long Way, Baby (1998), which included hits like "Praise You," "The Rockafeller Skank," and "Right Here, Right Now." Fatboy Slim's style blends big beat, house, and funky electronic rhythms, establishing him as a key figure in the global dance music scene. Known for his charismatic performances and iconic music videos, he has won multiple awards and remains a beloved figure in electronic music. Beyond his music career, Fatboy Slim has also been a trailblazer in live DJ events, known for his energetic sets and creative stage productions.

Baron Cooper of Windrush
(RGS 1973-1982)

Baron Andrew Cooper of Windrush, born in 1963, is a British political strategist, businessman, and former Conservative peer in the House of Lords. A key figure in UK politics, he has been involved in several high-profile political campaigns, including advising on the Conservative Party's successful 2015 election campaign. Cooper has also worked extensively on issues of political strategy and communications, influencing public opinion and political behavior. Before his political career, he was a founder of the polling and consultancy firm Populus. As a life peer, appointed in 2011, Lord Cooper has focused on policy issues such as governance, public opinion, and the role of technology in politics. Known for his analytical approach, he has contributed to discussions on political engagement and the challenges facing modern democracies. Lord Cooper continues to play a prominent role in British political strategy and consultancy.

Hon. Mr Justice Hidden QC (1936-2016)
(RGS 1945-1954)

The Honorable Justice Hidden was a distinguished British judge, known for his expertise in constitutional and civil law. A graduate of Emmanuel College, Cambridge, he was Head Boy at Reigate Grammar School in 1954, demonstrating early leadership. After serving with the Royal Tank Regiment, he was called to the Bar in 1961, where he built a successful career, later becoming Queen’s Counsel. In 1989, he was appointed to the High Court of Justice, where he served until 2003, earning recognition for his thorough and fair rulings. Justice Hidden was also known for chairing the public inquiry into the 1988 Clapham rail crash, where his leadership and investigation led to significant changes in rail safety. Throughout his career, he contributed to legal precedents in human rights, public law, and corporate governance. Justice Hidden passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, fairness, and dedication to the law.

Andrew Cantrill
(RGS 1981-1987)

Andrew Cantrill is a distinguished British organist and choral director, known for his exceptional musicianship and leadership in both organ performance and choral music. He began his career directing choirs in Belfast and Grimsby, before moving to Wellington, New Zealand, as Director of Music at Wellington Cathedral of St. Paul. During his time in New Zealand, he was a regular guest conductor with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and frequently broadcast on Radio New Zealand. Following his time in New Zealand, Andrew was appointed Organist-Choirmaster at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Buffalo, New York, where he led the music program until his return to the UK in 2007. He is currently Organist & Master of the Choristers at Croydon Parish Church, where he continues to lead the choir and music program with distinction. Recently, Andrew Cantrill has been elected as a Trustee of the Royal College of Organists. His career continues to inspire musicians and audiences worldwide.

Susan Gritton
(RGS 1981-1983)

Susan Gritton is a renowned British soprano, celebrated for her exceptional vocal technique and versatile performances across opera and concert stages. Born in 1963, Gritton has performed with many of the world’s leading opera companies and orchestras, earning acclaim for her interpretations of both classic and contemporary works. She made her professional debut in 1990 and quickly gained recognition for her clear, expressive voice and strong stage presence. Gritton has appeared in major productions at the Royal Opera House, English National Opera, and Glyndebourne Festival Opera, where her roles have included key characters in operas by Mozart, Puccini, and Verdi. In addition to her operatic career, she has been a frequent performer in concert settings, with a wide repertoire that spans sacred, oratorio, and chamber music. Susan Gritton continues to be admired for her artistry and is considered one of the leading sopranos of her generation.

Alec Reeves CBE (1902-1971)
(RGS 1914-1918)

Alec Reeves was a pioneering British engineer and inventor, best known for his groundbreaking work in the field of telecommunications and military technology. In 1935, he invented the first remote-controlled bombing device, a significant innovation that contributed to the development of modern warfare technology. Reeves' invention, known as "the radio-controlled aircraft," allowed for the precise targeting of bomb sites, marking a major advancement in military strategy. A skilled engineer, he worked for various research organizations, including the Royal Aircraft Establishment, where he focused on radar and remote control systems. His contributions extended beyond military applications, influencing the development of early radar systems during World War II. Reeves' ingenuity and vision laid the foundation for many technologies that would later be used in military and civilian industries. His work is remembered for its impact on engineering and defense technology, and he remains a key figure in the history of technological innovation.

Ben Mee
(RGS 1977-1980)

Ben Mee is a British author, journalist, and animal rights advocate, best known for his memoir We Bought a Zoo (2008), which chronicles his family's adventure in purchasing and running a struggling zoo. The book, which details the challenges and joys of their new life at Dartmoor Zoological Park, became a bestseller and was adapted into a popular 2011 film starring Matt Damon. Prior to his zoo experience, Mee worked as a journalist, contributing to various publications, including The Times and The Independent. His passion for animals and conservation has been a driving force throughout his life, and his work has brought attention to wildlife preservation. In addition to We Bought a Zoo, Mee has written Zoology: The Stories Behind the Animals, further cementing his connection to animal education and advocacy. Today, Mee continues to be involved in both the zoological world and animal welfare initiatives.

Andrew Sullivan
(RGS 1974-1981)

Andrew Sullivan is a British-American writer, journalist, and commentator, recognized as a pioneer of the political blog. Born in 1963 in England, he moved to the U.S. in the 1980s and became a U.S. citizen. Sullivan attended Magdalen College, Oxford, earning a first-class Bachelor of Arts in modern history and languages. He was elected President of the Oxford Union in 1983. He later earned a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University and a Ph.D. in government in 1990. Sullivan was the editor of The New Republic from 1991 to 1996 and has contributed to Time, The Atlantic, The Daily Beast, and The Sunday Times. As an author, his 1995 book Virtually Normal was one of the first major publications advocating for same-sex marriage. Sullivan's blog, The Dish, became a widely influential platform for political analysis. Now based in Washington, D.C., he is known for his independent views on politics, culture, and LGBT rights.

Professor Sir David Hall
(RGS 1956-1963)

Professor Sir David Hall (RGS 1956-1963) is a distinguished expert in community child health, with an internationally recognized career. He is Emeritus Professor of Community Paediatrics at the University of Sheffield and Honorary Professor of Paediatrics at the University of Cape Town and Red Cross Children’s Hospital. David studied medicine at the University of London, graduating with a Gold Medal, before completing his paediatric training in Canada, Johannesburg, and London. From 1978 to 1993, he worked as a consultant at St George’s Hospital in London. He then became Professor of Community Paediatrics at Sheffield University until his retirement. David served as President of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health from 2000 to 2003, advising the Department of Health on topics like SureStart, child protection, MMR, and autism. He has supported various NGOs and, since 2006, has worked with his wife, Sue, on child health and literacy projects in Cape Town.

David Walliams OBE
(RGS 1981-1989)

David Walliams, born August 20, 1971, in London, is a British comedian, actor, writer, and television personality. He rose to fame as part of the comedy duo Little Britain alongside Matt Lucas, known for its satirical humor. Walliams has also become a highly successful children's author, with his debut novel The Boy in the Dress (2008) quickly gaining popularity. His books, such as Mr. Stink, Gangsta Granny, and The World's Worst Children, have won numerous awards and are beloved by young readers worldwide. Walliams' storytelling blends humor with heart, tackling themes of friendship, kindness, and self-acceptance. His works have been adapted into television films and stage productions, expanding his reach. Walliams served as a judge on Britain's Got Talent for several years, earning acclaim for his wit. A passionate supporter of education, he remains engaged with Reigate Grammar School, visiting to support the school's work.

Ben Edwards
(RGS 1978-1983)

Ben Edwards is a renowned British motorsport commentator, best known for his work as a Formula 1 commentator. Born in 1963, Edwards began his motorsport career as a mechanic for Formula Ford teams, which gave him valuable technical knowledge. He later transitioned to racing, winning the very first Formula First Championship, a now-defunct series for new drivers. Edwards competed in various motorsport events, including Formula Ford, before moving into commentary. His deep understanding of the sport, both from a driver’s and technical perspective, made him a natural fit for broadcasting. He joined the BBC’s F1 coverage team in 2009 and later moved to Channel 4 in 2016 as lead commentator. Known for his engaging and passionate style, Edwards has also covered other motorsport events such as Formula E, touring cars, and endurance racing. His unique background as a mechanic, driver, and commentator has made him one of F1’s most respected voices.

Bill Frindall MBE (1939-2009)
(RGS 1950-1957)

Bill Frindall, known as ‘The Bearded Wonder’ by the late Brian Johnston, was the BBC’s scorer and statistician from 1966, serving as the longest-serving member of the Test Match Special commentary team. His first Test match was on 2 June 1966 when England played the West Indies at Old Trafford, and he went on to score 377 Tests, covering every England home Test thereafter until 2008. After serving in the RAF, Bill became a full-time freelance statistician, devising his own linear scoring system and editing numerous cricket publications. A right-handed medium fast bowler and mid-order batsman, he played for Banstead, the MCC, Hampshire 2nd XI, the Cricket Society, and The Lord’s Taverners. Bill was President of the BBC Cricket Club from 1998, appointed MBE in 2004, and became Patron of the German Cricket Board in 2005. He was awarded an Honorary Degree by Staffordshire University for his contribution to cricket statistics in 1998.

Bevis Hillier
(RGS 1951-1959)

An English art historian, author, and journalist, [Name] attended Reigate Grammar School before studying at Magdalen College, Oxford, where he won the Gladstone Memorial Prize for History. He began his journalism career at The Times in 1963 and later became editor of The Connoisseur, a columnist for the Los Angeles Times, and lead reviewer for The Spectator. His major work, the authorized biography of Sir John Betjeman, was published in three parts between 1988 and 2004, with a one-volume abridged version released in 2006 for Betjeman's centenary. In the same year, he gained attention as the hoaxer behind a spoof love letter that duped A. N. Wilson, Betjeman's biographer. [Name] is also known for his writing on Art Deco, with his 1968 book Art Deco of the 20s and 30s reigniting interest in the style. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and Literature, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by the University of Winchester in 2009.

Derek Twine CBE
(RGS 1962-1970)

Derek Twine served as CEO of the Scout Association from 1997 to 2013, leading the organization through significant growth in youth membership, adult volunteering, and financial stability. Under his leadership, the Scout Association gained national recognition and enhanced its social profile. Derek has chaired panels for the National Youth Agency, the National Council for Youth Services, and the Association of Chief Executives, and has represented the sector in the media and given evidence to Parliamentary Enquiries. He is an Honorary Lay Canon in the Diocese of Leeds and was Chair of Bradford Cathedral Council from 2013 to 2023. Since 2023, he has been a member of the Ripon Cathedral Consultative Council. Derek has also served as Vice-Chair of the Church Urban Fund and a member of the National Trust Council. In 2020, he was appointed Deputy Chair of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority. Derek was appointed CBE in 2007 for services to young people.

Fred Streeter MBE (1879-1975)
(RGS 1938-1941)

Fred Streeter MBE was 'an extremely promising pupil' at Reigate Grammar School but left at the age of 12, determined to pursue a career as a gardener. His passion for horticulture led him to become a famous gardening expert and broadcaster. Fred's expertise, particularly in dahlias, earned him widespread recognition in the gardening community. In 1945, he was awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Victoria Medal of Honour, its highest award, for his contributions to the field. Throughout his career, he became a prominent figure in British horticulture, sharing his knowledge through books, television, and radio. Fred was also known for his appearance as a castaway on the BBC Radio programme Desert Island Discs on 15 July 1957. His legacy in gardening is marked by his dedication to his craft and his lasting influence on the industry.

Vice Admiral Sir Geoffrey Dalton KCB(RGS 1943-1948)

Vice Admiral Sir Geoffrey Dalton joined the Royal Navy in 1949 and had a distinguished military career, culminating in his role as Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Atlantic from 1984 to 1987. After retiring from the Navy, Sir Geoffrey became Secretary General of MENCAP, where he served from 1987 to 1990, before being appointed President of the Royal British Legion from 1993 to 1997. His leadership and dedication to veterans' causes earned him widespread respect. Later, he became President of the D-Day and Normandy Fellowship, honoring the legacy of the D-Day landings. From 1995 to 2002, he served as Vice Chairman of Governors at Queen Mary College, London, contributing to the university’s development. Sir Geoffrey was also appointed Honorary Colonel of the 71st (Yeomanry) Signal Regiment from 1998 to 2001. His legacy reflects a lifetime of service to both the military and civilian communities.

The Rt. Hon. Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP(RGS 1974-1981)

Sir Keir Starmer is a British politician and the current leader of the Labour Party, a position he has held since April 2020. Born on September 2, 1962, in Southwark, London, Starmer studied law at Oxford University before becoming a barrister and eventually a Queen's Counsel (QC) in 2002. His distinguished legal career culminated in his appointment as Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in 2008, where he oversaw major criminal cases, including those related to terrorism. Starmer entered politics in 2015, representing Holborn and St Pancras as a Labour MP. Following the resignation of Jeremy Corbyn, Starmer was elected Labour leader in 2020, leading the party through a period of internal reform and national challenges. In the 2024 general election, Starmer's leadership was pivotal in securing a Labour victory, and he became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Known for his pragmatic and centrist approach, he focuses on economic fairness, public services, and social justice.

John L Haybittle (1922-2017)
(RGS 1932-1940)

John was a distinguished British Medical Physicist renowned for his contributions to radiology and cancer research. He served as Secretary of the British Institute of Radiology from 1962 to 1967 and was Editor of the British Journal of Radiology from 1981 to 1986. Throughout his career, John received numerous accolades, including the British Institute of Radiology’s Röntgen Prize in 1972 and the Barclay Medal in 1987. In 1967, he became one of the first Cambridge Alumni to be awarded a Doctorate for published research. He is best known for co-inventing the Haybittle–Peto boundary with Richard Peto, a statistical tool used by clinicians to determine when to stop a clinical trial early due to success. John's pioneering work in early breast cancer screening, alongside Diana Brinkley, and his analysis of the Kings/Cambridge Trial remains a model in the field. He was also an active member and Chairman of the British Breast Group.

John Westbrook (1922-1989)
RGS Dates TBC

John Westbrook was a talented British actor known for his work in theatre, radio, film, and television. Best remembered for his role as Christopher Gough in Roger Corman's 1964 horror film The Tomb of Ligeia, Westbrook was celebrated for his deep, mellifluous voice, which made him a sought-after performer in radio plays and audiobook recordings. His theatrical career spanned numerous Shakespearean roles, showcasing his versatility and command of classical drama. In addition to his stage and screen work, Westbrook was involved in productions with religious themes, adding a unique depth to his performances. His voice, combined with his strong stage presence, left a lasting impression on audiences in both the UK and abroad. Westbrook’s broad career reflected his dedication to the craft of acting, and his contributions to radio and theatre, in particular, earned him recognition within the entertainment community.

Laurie Reed
(RGS 1948-1953)

Laurie Reed was a British middle-distance runner whose athletic career began at Reigate Grammar School, where he set the school’s record for the mile and was runner-up in the All England Schools’ Mile Championship. In 1957, at 21, he embarked on his international athletics career, winning the 3,000 metres at his first overseas competition in France. Over the next few years, he competed in France, Poland, Sweden, Germany, and Italy, though injuries often hindered his progress. In 1960, Laurie represented Great Britain and Ireland in the 1,500 metres at the Rome Olympics. Despite the challenges of limited preparation and the extreme heat, Laurie considered it a great honour to compete. A few weeks later, he defeated Herb Elliott, the Olympic 1,500-metre gold medalist, in a cross-country race. Later in life, Laurie completed three consecutive London Marathons, finishing his last at 49 with a time of 2 hours, 46 minutes, and 49 seconds.

Surgeon Captain Sarah Stapley
(RGS 1982-1984)

Sarah is a Consultant Orthopedic and Trauma Surgeon who has served in the Royal Navy since 1987. She has been deployed six times with the Defence Medical Services to Iraq and Afghanistan, including in 2011 as Deployed Medical Director, overseeing clinical leadership and management at the UK Hospital in Camp Bastion. Her exceptional service has earned her the Order of St John for contributions to the Defence Medical Services, as well as the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service. In the civilian sector, Sarah has received prestigious fellowships from the British Orthopaedic Association, including American, British, and Canadian Travelling Fellowships. In 2011, she was awarded the Women of the Year award as part of a team of six British women recognized for their role in the treatment of injured military personnel. Sarah has also been instrumental in training surgeons, serving as Programme Director of Core Surgery and later as a Military Surgery and Trauma Senior Lecturer.

The Lord Sterling of Plaistow GCVO, CBE
(RGS 1945-1949)

Sir John Smith is a distinguished British businessman and philanthropist, with a notable career spanning various sectors. He served as Executive Chairman of the P&O Steam Navigation Company from 1983 to 2005 and is now Life President of P&O Princess Cruises. A joint founder and current Chairman of Motability, he has also held influential leadership roles, including Chairman of the National Maritime Museum and the Governors of The Royal Ballet School. From 1975 to 1983, he was Chairman of the Young Vic Company. He served as President of the General Council of British Shipping (1990–1991) and the European Community Shipowners’ Associations (1992–1994). Knighted in 1985 for public service and industry contributions, John was made a life peer in 1990 and awarded the Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO) in 2002. He holds an honorary Vice Admiral commission in the Royal Naval Reserve.

Professor John Murrell BSc, PhD, FRSC, FRS
(RGS 1943-1950)

Professor John Murrell BSc, PhD, FRSC, FRS, is a renowned British chemist who has made significant contributions to theoretical chemistry. He earned his first degree at King’s College, London, and completed his PhD at the University of Cambridge. In 1964, he was appointed Professor of Chemistry at the University of Sussex, where he became a leading figure in the field. In 1991, he was elected a Fellow of The Royal Society in recognition of his groundbreaking work. In 1996, he was appointed founding Dean of the new School of Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Science at Sussex. Professor Murrell holds an honorary DSc from the University of Coimbra, Portugal. After retiring in 1999, he continued his association with Sussex as Emeritus Professor of Chemistry. Throughout his career, he published numerous papers and authored seven influential books, solidifying his legacy as a leading scholar in theoretical chemistry.

Professor Peter Fookes, FREng, Hon FRGS, Hon DSC (Plym), BSc (Hons), PhD (Eng), DSc (Eng), Ceng, Cgeol, FIMM, FGS
(RGS 1944-1949)

Professor Peter Fookes was a distinguished international consultant engineering geologist, widely regarded as the "father of modern engineering geology" and a pre-eminent figure in the field. With a career spanning decades, he made groundbreaking contributions to the study of geomaterials and engineering geomorphology. His expertise and innovative approaches to understanding the interactions between geology and engineering have left a lasting impact on the discipline. Professor Fookes played a pivotal role in advancing the scientific understanding of soil and rock behavior, helping to shape modern engineering practices. His work was instrumental in improving the safety and efficiency of infrastructure projects around the world. As a respected consultant, he advised on major engineering projects and became a leading voice in international forums. His legacy continues to influence the development of engineering geology, and he remains a highly regarded figure in both academic and practical applications of the field.

Ray Mears
(RGS 1977-1982)

Ray Mears is a British woodsman, survival expert, and television presenter, best known for his work in promoting outdoor survival skills. He began his career in the early 1980s, developing a deep interest in bushcraft, wilderness survival, and traditional skills. Mears gained widespread recognition through his television series, such as Ray Mears' World of Survival and Wild Food, where he shared his expertise on living off the land, navigating the wilderness, and mastering essential survival techniques. His passion for nature and survival has led him to explore remote areas of the world, from the forests of Canada to the deserts of Africa. Mears is also the founder of the Woodlore School of Wilderness Bushcraft, which offers training in outdoor survival and bushcraft skills. An author of several books, he has become a respected figure in the outdoor community, inspiring many to reconnect with nature and develop self-reliance in the wild.

Romesh Ranganathan
(RGS 1990-1992)

Romesh Ranganathan is a British comedian, actor, and writer, known for his sharp wit and distinct comedic style. Born on January 27, 1978, in Crawley, England, Romesh initially pursued a career in mathematics before transitioning to stand-up comedy in the early 2010s. His quick rise in the comedy world was marked by appearances on popular shows such as Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News for You, and Mock the Week. Romesh is also known for his television presenting work, including hosting The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan, where he travels the world in a humorous exploration of different cultures. In addition to his television work, he has released a series of well-received stand-up specials and written a memoir, Straight Outta Crawley. His blend of self-deprecating humor, observational comedy, and candidness about his life experiences has made him one of the UK's most popular comedians.

Simon Virley CB
(RGS 1980-1987)

Simon is a former Director General for Energy at the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), with a distinguished career in public service and energy policy. He was previously Chief Executive of the Office for Renewable Energy Deployment and Acting Director General at DECC in 2009. Simon has also held senior roles, including Director of Renewable Energy at the Department for Business and Director of Corporate Finance at KPMG. Earlier, he was Director of the Better Regulation Executive in the Cabinet Office and served as Private Secretary to Prime Minister Tony Blair from 2000 to 2003. Trained as an economist at Oxford and the LSE, Simon spent much of his early career in the Treasury, leading work on ‘green’ taxes and the first National Minimum Wage. Awarded a CB in 2014 for his contributions to UK energy security, Simon now works as a Partner at KPMG, supporting the firm’s Energy practice.

Sir Godfrey Ince
(RGS 1903-1910)

Sir Godfrey Ince was a British civil servant who served as the Director General of Manpower during World War II. Appointed to this critical role in 1941, he played a key part in organizing and mobilizing the workforce for the war effort. His responsibilities included overseeing the allocation of labor to essential industries and military service, ensuring that the UK’s economy could continue functioning while supporting the demands of wartime production. Sir Godfrey's leadership in managing manpower resources was instrumental in maintaining productivity despite the disruptions caused by the war. He was known for his efficiency, strategic thinking, and ability to coordinate complex logistical operations. In recognition of his outstanding service, Sir Godfrey was knighted after the war. His work left a lasting impact on the UK's wartime economy, and his contributions to the civil service continued to be acknowledged throughout his career.

Sir Peter Gershon CBE FREng
(RGS 1958-1965)

Peter has had a distinguished career spanning both the private and public sectors since graduating in Mathematics from Cambridge University in 1969. He began his career in the computer industry (1969-1986) before moving to the telecoms sector (1987-1994) and later serving as a board member of GEC plc until the sale of its defense business to BAE in 1999. In 2000, Peter joined the Civil Service as the first Chief Executive of the Office of Government Commerce (OGC), leading efforts to reform UK government procurement practices. In 2003, he was appointed to lead a major review of UK public sector efficiency. After over four years of public service, Peter returned to the private sector, becoming Chairman of Tate & Lyle PLC (2009-2017) and Chairman of National Grid Plc in 2012. He has also been involved in several high-profile projects and reviews, including for the Australian Government. Knighted in 2004, Peter holds several honorary roles, including as Honorary President of the Henry Smith Club.

Sir Peter Lampl OBE
(RGS 1959-1964)

Peter Lampl is the Chairman of The Sutton Trust, an organization he founded in 1997 to improve social mobility through education. Recognized as the UK’s leading educational philanthropist, Peter has donated over £50 million to the Trust to support young people from non-privileged backgrounds. He is also the chairman of the Education Endowment Foundation, established in 2011 with £135 million from the government to enhance the academic performance of disadvantaged children in challenging schools. Peter’s first philanthropic endeavor was funding the campaign to ban handguns after the Dunblane massacre, a campaign that successfully led to a complete ban on handguns in the UK. In 1983, he founded the Sutton Company, a successful private equity firm with offices in New York, London, and Munich. This success made Peter one of the 200 wealthiest people in the UK. His dedication to philanthropy has significantly impacted education and social mobility in the UK.

Trevor Kavanagh
(RGS 1954-1960)

Trevor Kavanagh is a seasoned British journalist and the political editor of The Sun, a position he has held for many years. With a career spanning several decades, Kavanagh is renowned for his influential role in shaping political discourse in the UK through his reporting and analysis. He joined The Sun in 1975 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming political editor in 1990. Throughout his career, Kavanagh has covered major political events, from general elections to significant government policies, and has earned a reputation for his direct and impactful style of journalism. Known for his close connections with key political figures, he has been a significant voice in British media, often leading The Sun’s coverage of political scandals and campaigns. His contributions to British journalism were recognized with several awards, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the media landscape.

Professor Chris Wise
(RGS 1968-1976)

Chris Wise is an accomplished engineer, academic, and broadcaster. He began his career with Ove Arup and Partners in 1979, working in the UK, Australia, and the US. By 1992, he became the youngest Director at Arup and later served as one of five Board Directors overseeing 500 engineers and support staff in Building Engineering. In 1999, Chris co-founded Expedition Engineering with Seán Walsh.

Chris was the first Professor of Creative Design at Imperial College and has collaborated with leading architects on award-winning projects worldwide, including twice winning the Construction Industry Building of the Year award and the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize for Architecture. A Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, he was honored with the Academy’s Silver Medal in 2007. Chris is also a Trustee of the Design Council and a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers, recognized for his significant contributions to engineering and design innovation.