It is with great sadness that we report the death of Dr Chris Wilkes from a  heart attack on Friday 18 March. He had worked at Ruskin during  three decades, initially as general secretary and more recently as principal. A historian by initial qualification at the University of Reading he was always supportive of initiatives to preserve the heritage of Ruskin and to support history within the college. On taking up the post of principal he attempted to return the college to its former political direction emphasising trade union and labour movement links and equality and moving away from the rhetoric of “disadvantage”. Many will remember his supportive actions and behind -the – scenes work even in stressful times. He will be much missed.

His funeral takes place on Tuesday 19 April at 2pm at St Mary’s Church in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire  EN8 9PB followed by burial at Cheshunt cemetery.  A celebration of Chris’s life is being planned for a future date by the College.