Peter Cooper MIET, June 1934 – July 2022

Peter Cooper sadly passed away on 17 July 2022 at the age of 88.

He was an apprentice at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment (AERE) in Harwell from 1951-1959. This was the main centre for atomic energy research and development in the UK, and was created, funded and owned by the British Government. Following his apprenticeship, he worked for the Medical Research Council.

In 1959, Peter was called for National Service after deferment with the Royal Air Force as a Junior Technician in radar at Boscombe Down Research Station in Wiltshire. He remained there until 1961.

He went on to work for Westinghouse Brake and Signal Company which was based in Chippenham. Peter helped to manufacture railroad signs from 1961 until 1974 as the Head of Technical Liason.

Peter joined the Institution of Electronic and Radio Engineers (IERE) which merged with the Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE), now the IET and acted as Chairman for the South West area. He remained a member since joining the IERE in 1962, apart from a short time due to ill-health.

In 1974, Peter worked for the Central Electricity Generating Board (CEGB) in Guilford as Senior Engineer, working on transmission until his retirement. The CEGB later became National Grid when the electricity industry became privatised.

He is survived by his wife, Myrtle Cooper.