A Methodist Local Preacher from 1932, he played a leading role in developing inter-faith dialogue in Leeds. He was born on 8 September 1910 at Jesmond, Newcastle. There is some uncertainty as to his precise name of 'Peter', which seems to have been adopted subsequent to the registration of his birth.

He graduated with a BSc from St. John's College, Durham University and other academic attainments followed – a Diploma in Theology, 1936; MSc in 1939; MEd in 1949; PhD in 1956. His first teaching post was in 1932 at Mansfield Grammar School and on retirement in 1975 he was Principal Lecturer and Head of the Geography Department at City of Leeds and Carnegie College in the Leeds Institute of Education. During World War II he served with both the Royal Engineers and the Royal Army Pay Corps, it is thought part of the time in India.

Following retirement he enthusiastically supported and became involved in a venture in Leeds to bring Jews, Christians and Muslims together, out of which emerged the Leeds Concord Interfaith Fellowship. He was its Secretary until his death. Other faiths now involved include Bahai, Brahma Kumari, Buddhists, Hindus, Pagans and Sikhs.

In 1986 he became an executive member of the National Interfaith Network and for his work was awarded the MBE in 1994. He died in Leeds on 3 March 1999.

Entry written by: DCD
Category: Person
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