I was one of the earliest to benefit from the Tanner Revolution. Neil Tanner contacted Apsley Grammar School in the late 60s looking for students with potential. I had developed a flair for science and mathematics and so I was invited for an interview and an exam. On the strength of those I was offered an Exhibition (a minor scholarship) to study physics at Hertford College, the only condition being that I obtained at least two Es at A level. That was the Tanner Revolution in action! 

It completely turned around my poor start in secondary school education, but that's another story. It also got me into rowing, also another story. I remained in touch with Neil for many years after I left university and it was a great sadness to meet him in Oxford one morning after he had become ill. I met him again after he had moved into a nursing home. That was a very difficult meeting for me; he passed on not long after that. I will always be grateful to you Neil for breaking the mould and for helping me to achieve my potential.

Although it is in a small way, it is my turn to support students with flair who might not otherwise make it into higher education. So it is in memory of Neil and to raise money for future students that I am cycling with the Tour De Hertford team this summer.

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