Mr Thomas F.D. Easton (Environmental Biology 1996)

Provided by Frank Easton

Thomas Easton was born in 1974 with a heart defect which required early surgery and caused him problems throughout his life.

He attended the village school in Shalford, Essex being recognised as a gifted child by the Education Authority. Following secondary education at Newport Grammar School in Essex where he was involved in the full range of activities including sport, he had further heart surgery before going to Wye College, where he studied Environmental Biology, achieving a 2.1. During the vacations he farmed, forming a life long love for the land.

He joined ALcontrol in 1999, becoming Organics Manager. A senior colleague described him as the best practising chromatographer he had met, while another remarked on his intellect, problem-solving ability and 'hands on' approach.

In 2002, more heart complications were diagnosed, and later he developed what became a severe case of ulcerative colitis. In November 2006, he underwent a further heart operation from which he did not recover, dying at the age of 32.

The many tributes received, described him as a brilliant scientist, witty, friendly and supportive, generous and a man of integrity. He fought the adversity of his ill-health with little complaint and great courage and humour. He is survived by his parents and brother and sister.