It is with enormous sadness we report the passing of our former Chair and Patron, Sir Henry Brooke CMG.
A former Lord Justice of the Appeal, Sir Henry became a supporter and then Trustee and Chair of PoC upon his retirement from the judiciary.
Lynn Carter writes,
‘Not only have we lost a titan in the world of law, but many of us have also lost a dear friend and colleague. After a chance meeting with Sir Henry and his lovely wife, Biddy, many years ago at a House of Lords tea, Sir Henry quickly became a supporter of PoC and, on his retirement from the judiciary, foolishly offered to ‘do more’.
And do more he certainly did. Countless PoC events were elevated to a stellar level due to Sir Henry’s involvement, but he also gave up endless hours to the less glamorous nuts and bolts of running a small charity by chairing frequent meetings, drafting detailed policy documents and fundraising appeals. His talents and knowledge were immense. I learned so much personally and PoC benefited greatly. He was the greatest and kindest of cheerleaders and a wonderful mentor. I still pinch myself to this day knowing how lucky we were to have him in our corner. On behalf of the countless prisoners of conscience and their families whose lives were transformed by Sir Henry’s generous involvement and support, we send sincere condolences to Biddy and his family at this sad time.’
On his retirement, Sir Henry had started a fascinating blog about his life and career, which gives a snapshot into the enormous legacy he leaves behind him. Click here to read the piece he wrote about his retirement from PoC in 2016.