Cecil Reginald Burch, 12 May 1901 - 19 July 1983

Abstract

‘Begin at the beginning, go on to the middle, and when you come to the end, stop.’ So began the only book that Cecil Burch wrote, An introduction to the theory of eddy-current heating , written jointly with his, and my, friend and collaborator, Neville Ryland Davis, a book as delightful as any technical book I have ever read, clear in exposition and comprehensive in its coverage. Every chapter was prefaced by an apt quotation and the book exhibits the ornateness that characterized all Burch’s writings, letters and speeches, an ornateness based partly on his very wide knowledge of classical literature, but also on what appeared to be a desire to impress. He took a real joy in arresting his audience by his mannerisms and choice of words; indeed his language could be really shocking—he had command of a ‘Works’ vocabulary, which he used without regard to the sensitivity of his listeners or even of their sex. Behind this facade lay a very kindly nature: he always listened to anyone asking for help or advice and would devote time most generously to ensure that his questioner went away fully satisfied but never feeling awed or patronized by a man of high intellect. He was truly loved by all the laboratory assistants who worked with him and was remembered with great affection by all his friends in Trafford Park.