Neil was an extraordinary human being. The son of a coal miner in the Nottingham area, he was passionate about human rights from an early age and initially intended to pursue a career as a human rights lawyer, switching to Medicine after undertaking a PhD and medical training in Newcastle under the influence of Professor David Mendelow.

Following further mentorship with Professor Mike Griffin and Bill Cunliffe in Newcastle/Gateshead and training in the USA, he pursued a career in surgical gastroenterology.

Neil was a brilliant and technically gifted surgeon, an insightful academic, and, most of all, a kind and thoughtful person. He had a genuine desire to improve the lives of people having surgery and living with its consequences.

He remained incredibly devoted to his patients throughout his career and brought energy and wisdom to our Board of Trustees.

He was an incredibly courageous man. He remained positive and engaged in academic surgery throughout his illness and avoided allowing it to impact negatively on his life as much as he could. He spoke with often disarming candour about his illness and even his impending death.

Neil’s passion and expertise were simply immeasurable.