Gwen was appointed Vice-Principal of the new Church of England College of Education, S. Martin’s, Lancaster and joined the staff at its inception in 1964. A scientist, who studied Chemistry, Physics and Botany at London University, she had previously been head teacher at Brighouse Girls’ Grammar school in Yorkshire. When she left S. Martin’s in 1970, it was to become Principal of St. Mary’s College Cheltenham, now the University of Gloucestershire
Gwen was much loved and respected by staff and students alike. She was always practical and calm in a crisis and provided the perfect foil for the Principal, Dr Hugh Pollard, a much more extroverted and colourful character. The smooth running of the College in its early days was largely owing to Gwen’s efficient but low- key management.
As a ‘mere scientist’, as she sometimes called herself, Gwen claimed to know nothing about Theology. She was, nevertheless, a committed Christian who lived a life of dedication and service. According to their website, she raised £50,000 for Voluntary Service Overseas over a period of 40 years. She also made Christmas cards for the Church Mission Society and donations to these charities may be made in her memory.
In retirement, Gwen lived with her sister in Cheltenham, and they enjoyed many holidays abroad until her sister became ill and eventually predeceased her. More recently, Gwen has been a resident at Charlton Kings Care Home, Cheltenham where the staff took excellent care of her.
She died on 21st July 2024 at the age of 102 and will be remembered with love and affection by all who knew her.
