It is with great sadness that we inform you that one of the founding members of ALWL, John Roberts, has recently passed away. 

 

As you know, John helped establish ALWL in 2011, was our Vice-Chair, and a fervent friend and colleague to so many of us who will mourn his loss deeply.

 

In all of our time together, John never missed a meeting of ALWL. He was such a positive force of support to us all, and had such warm humour and unparalleled kindness. We will miss him greatly, but are ever thankful that we got to know him so well and enjoyed such wonderful times together.

 

John grew up in North Wales, which continued to have an indelible connection to him throughout his life. He would go as often as he could to Caernarfon, and loved Wales with tremendous conviction.

 

On leaving school, John went to Liverpool University to study law. He graduated with a First. His academic prowess secured him a position at The Law Commission in London under the then brilliant leadership of Lord Scarman. John enjoyed his time there, but his talents were such that many others in London had seen his great potential.

 

He went to work with Lord Goodman, who at that time was the confidente and solicitor of choice to many senior politicians, including Prime Minister Harold Wilson. That law firm became Goodman Derrick, where John later became the Senior Partner for 15 years, having enjoyed a hugely successful career in company and commercial law. Goodman Derrick is also where he met the love of his life, Liz, who he married and with whom he had two wonderful children who he adored, Huw and Rosalind (affectionately known as Roo).

 

John was 76 years of age when he died, having lived a very full and enjoyable life. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. We at ALWL were truly blessed by his friendship and leadership.

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Hefin Rees, December 2020