Peter was born on 22 July 1932 in Isleworth and was brought up by his mother whilst his father was away at war. Having evacuated to Cornwall his mother found it far too quiet there, so they moved back to London in the height of the war.
Peter was educated at Churcher’s College and it was here that his love of sport, especially rugby grew. Not long after leaving school he was called up for National Service and joined the parachute regiment. ‘Knees together, slightly bent, feet together, arms tight’ was his mantra.

He met his wife, Kathleen, in 1956 in the dance halls of Winchester and would visit Kathleen in London after her move there. They would frequently be found in the Troubador at Earls Court listening to the skiffle groups playing there.  They married in Kings Somborne in 1958 and moved to Hayling Island at the start of their married life.

From Hayling Island, they moved to Woodmancote and started a family, having three children Simon, Sally and Michael.  They have lived in the same house in Woodmancote for 59 years. 

Peter joined the Forestry Commission and this was the start of his love of nature and farming.  From here he went on to work at Scats and was with them until his retirement 30 years later, working his way up through the Company to become a Director.

Sport was a huge part of Peter’s life, he played rugby for over 40 years and only stopped when he broke his leg in his 50s, playing for the undefeated Chichester Taverners team.  He played squash well into his sixties – happily beating men a third of his age and finally moved onto golf.  Peter was always more than a participant in everything he did. From being a School Governor to rugby Club Chairman to his involvement at both Westbourne and Woodmancote church, both of which were very much a core part of his life. He was a Sidesman at Westbourne throughout the 70s and 80s and played a key role in the life of Woodmancote Church.

Peter and Kathleen were happily married for over 60 years and enjoyed a fantastic retirement together, which included frequent visits back to Churcher’s for cricket matches and prize givings. Dad loved going back to his old school and catching up with his old classmates! In addition to their three children, Peter adored his daughter-in-law Tilly and two grandchildren Mimi and Nico.