Michael Francis Bott (known as Frank) sadly passed away on Friday 16th July 2023.  He attended WGS from 1951 to 1959.

He won a scholarship to study mathematics at Trinity College, Cambridge, when he was only 16. They asked him to defer for a year so he spent an extra year at WGS.

After he graduated, he worked for six years in the University of Cambridge and for nine years in the software industry.  He then spent two years as a Visiting Professor at the University of Missouri, before joining the Computer Science department of Aberystwyth University in 1979.  He played a major role in the development of the department.  He was closely involved in the British Computer Society and his books on professional issues are used all over the world.

Frank continued to support the department in semi-retirement. His wise advice and encouragement helped everyone who worked with him.  He was an impressive polymath.  The breadth and depth of his knowledge were incredible.  He was fluent in many languages.

Frank was also a pillar of the local community.  He was involved, often as treasurer, in a number of groups.  His interest in music saw him playing a major role in Aberystwyth MusicFest and the Aberystwyth Music Club; he co-wrote a biography of Joseph Parry, the eminent composer who was Professor of Music in Aberystwyth. His programme notes for concerts were much admired.

Mike Tedd (WGS 1954 - 1961)