We’re very sad to learn of the death of our Vice-President John Ashdown. He played such an important part in looking after Oxford, and in enriching our understanding of it.

John started out as a tea-boy in a London architectural practice, before working in the renowned GLC Historic Buildings Division for eight years. He arrived in Oxford in May 1972, where he served as a Conservation Officer of the highest calibre until 2000.

John became an OPT trustee in retirement and was incredibly generous with his time and expertise. It’s hard to think of another individual who has had such a positive impact on the city’s historic buildings – and on those of us who care about such things. We will miss him very much.