Born in the vibrant city of London, England, the individual in question was shaped by the influential presence of his father, Reginald, a distinguished wartime BBC radio announcer who operated under the professional name Michael Brooke. His mother, Beryl Riggs, a skilled performer who had the privilege of appearing in various productions of Just William, played a significant role in his early life, instilling in him a strong foundation of artistic expression. As a bilingual individual, he received his primary education at the Lycée Français in London, where he developed a profound understanding of the French language, honing his linguistic skills in a bilingual environment. Following his academic pursuits, he proceeded to read Law at the esteemed Edinburgh University, where he successfully completed his studies and was subsequently called to the bar in November 1968, marking a significant milestone in his professional journey.
A venerated and esteemed Barrister, renowned for his remarkable proficiency and erudition within the legal sphere, went on to assume the esteemed position of Judge, distinguished by his extraordinary aptitude and mastery of the law. His most outstanding accomplishment was securing compensation for in excess of one thousand individuals afflicted with hemophilia, who had been treated with blood tainted with HIV, and subsequently for those infected with Hepatitis C, during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
This remarkable achievement served as a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice and his remarkable capacity to make a profoundly positive impact on the lives of others.
Notable personal milestones in his life include his marriage to Sophie Vautier in 1972, with whom he had three sons: Nicholas, Anthony, and Benjamin, who brought immense joy and fulfillment to his life.
However, their union did not last forever, as the couple unfortunately divorced in 1985, marking a significant turning point in his personal journey.
Years later, he found love again and married Mireille Colahan, sharing a deep connection and building a new life together.
Throughout his life, his enthusiasm for various pursuits, including cycling, trains, and all things French, was palpable, reflecting his rich cultural heritage and love for the finer things in life.
His remarkable achievements did not go unnoticed, as the French Government honored him with the prestigious Legion d'Honneur in 2012, recognizing his groundbreaking efforts in establishing the Paris-London Bar Exchange, where lawyers from different linguistic backgrounds came together to conduct mock trials in a foreign language.
This remarkable achievement not only showcased his exceptional leadership skills but also his dedication to fostering greater understanding and cooperation between nations.
Ultimately, he retired in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication to his profession, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft and the lasting impact he had on the world.
