Sir Bernard Tomlinson

Distinguished neuropathologist, , with a long association with the Newcastle General Hospital and the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, Educated at Brunts School, Mansfield, studying medicine at University College, London, he was influenced by the teaching of Sir Thomas Lewis, Sir Francis Walshe and L E Glynn. After graduating in 1943, he took a house job in Nottingham and then joined the Emergency Medical Service as a trainee pathologist, working at Ashford, Middlesex with the pathologist, Gordon Signy.   He was appointed in 1949 as senior registrar in pathology at Newcastle General Hospital, and held subsequent appointments as consultant pathologist (1950-53) and senior consultant pathologist (1953-82). He was an honorary senior lecturer in pathology (1960-71), honorary professor (1972-85) and then emeritus professor at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne.  Sir Bernard's contribution to health service administration included his chairmanship of the Northern Regional Health Authority (1982-90). He chaired the Joint Planning Appointments Committee of the DHSS (1986-90) and led an inquiry into London's health services (1991-92).