P. M. Hacking writes: The obituary of Frank Farmer (September 10) correctly summarises both his outstanding scientific attributes and his self-effacement. As one of the first two radiologists to be trained in Newcastle, I have reason to be immensely grateful to a brilliant man who was able, clearly and patiently, to instil into me the essential rudiments of ionising radiation production and absorption — knowledge required for Part 1 of the erstwhile diploma in medical radiodiagnosis; this to someone who had found first MB physics quite a stumbling block. In tutorials he was able always to come down to our level while masterminding the physics of the linear accelerator and giving expert advice to the authorities of the likely contamination impact of the 1956 Windscale nuclear accident.
Corrine and Alan Rivers write: The obituary of Frank Farmer dealt in detail with Frank’s professional life. As friends and neighbours for many years we would like to add some comments on his personal life. Frank and Marion married in their 40s. Marion was born in Edinburgh, and became a consultant paediatric cardiologist — at that time quite an achievement for a woman in the medical profession.
Advertisement
Both Frank and Marion were very active members in the Society of Friends — Frank being an Elder. With the Society they were involved in such projects as bringing children across from Belfast for a holiday during the Troubles. Frank was also active in the Fellowship of Reconciliation.
Both led a simple life and were more concerned with helping others than the outward trappings of wealth and success. A typical example was at Christmas time when the Salvation Army used to sing carols around the streets — Frank and Marion would invite the whole band in for tea and biscuits to warm them up on their travels.
To their disappointment there were no children, and Marion died in 1991. Into his 80s Frank was a common sight on his cycle around the Jesmond and Sandyford areas of Newcastle, and he was still helping at the People’s Kitchen, is a charitable organisation which provides meals and companionship for the less privileged in Newcastle.
Advertisement
Peter LeRoy, former vice-chairman of the Incorporated Association of Preparatory Schools writes: Terrence McMullen (obituary, September 7) was one of the most modest, consistent, courteous and gracious exemplars of the Christian faith that I have known. He was a model to many of us who taught in independent schools, were prep-school head teachers or served the Incorporated Association of Preparatory Schools.
If proof were needed that a life of Christian integrity based on a personal commitment to Jesus Christ was attractive and compelling, then Terrence provided it. In contrast to the prevailing effort-based and moral exertion orthodoxy of much public school religion, he taught that Christian behaviour can only really flow from faith in Christ. He would calmly and clearly explain the essence of the Gospel to young people, with delightful touches of humour and an engaging glint in his eye.
Terrence’s faith always issued in practical service. Your obituary made no mention of the major impact for good — which he made in his retirement — on the Joint Educational Trust. This charity had been established by concerned heads to enable children who had suffered tragedy, trauma or serious domestic breakdown to benefit from the secure and caring environment of a prep school community.
As its schools co-ordinator, voluntarily and almost single-handedly, he proceeded to transform a somewhat informal organisation into an efficient operation, which raises funds and transforms the lives of disadvantaged children.
Advertisement
Terrence believed that only the best was acceptable, and he set high standards. People of his calibre, selflessness and integrity are all too rare.
If you would like to add a personal view or recollection to a published obituary, you can send your contribution by post to Times Obituaries, 1 Pennington Street, London E98 1TT; by fax to 020-7782 5870; or by e-mail to tributes@thetimes.co.uk