It is with profound sadness, that we regret to inform you of the passing of Ian Edmondson, fondly known as ‘The Doc’, a revered former teacher of Chemistry at Bury Grammar School, on 10th April 2024.

Ian joined BGS in September 1975, following two years of teaching at Balderstones Senior High School in Rochdale. Originally from Nottingham, Ian completed a degree in Chemistry at Manchester University, followed by a PhD in Polymer Physics in the Polymer Technology Department at UMIST.

Upon his retirement in 2005, The Clavian captured the enormous contribution Ian made to school life during his 30 years, stating that,

             ‘[…]it is difficult to quantify the contribution which he has made over that time. Ian’s enthusiasm never seems to have been diminished by the years. Any sign of a chemical problem to be solved and Ian would be there, test tubes in hand, seeing if he could get to the bottom of it. His ‘flash bang’ chemical shows, features of numerous Open Evenings, will be remembered by many who packed into the laboratories to see them and the laboratory ceiling may never recover!’

Aside from his role as a much-respected teacher, Ian also made major contributions to extra-curricular life at BGS through his lighting and sound expertise during school productions,

            ‘Ian was the technical mastermind behind stage lighting and sound for the best part of 25 years; he was even known to venture across Bridge Road to help with productions in the Girls’ School on occasions. His successes included spectacular productions such as The Resistible Rise of Arturo Uie.’

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to Ian’s family during this difficult time. As we reflect on Ian Edmondson’s contribution to the history of our school and the lasting memories of the alumni who had the privilege of being taught by Ian.