Veterinary school teacher was an inspiration to all

Published on Wednesday 1 July 2009 09:57

TRIBUTES have been paid to Dr David Cottrell, beloved teacher, colleague and friend of students and staff not only of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies but also of other veterinary schools, particularly his alma mater Liverpool University Veterinary School (1970), for whom he was an external examiner.

Dr Cottrell was also a much-loved husband and father to wife Frances and ten-year-old daughter, Sarah.

A proud member of the veterinary profession, he was a dedicated teacher and a scientist in the traditions of William Dick and his academic mentor Ainsley Iggo.

Educating students was his great pleasure, and he was an inspiration to them as well as being their guide and comforter. He gave his all to his students. No practical class, lecture, tutorial or exam was ever too much trouble if he thought students could benefit.

As a colleague David offered a rare depth of perspective in veterinary teaching and was always willing and eager to engage in discussions about what and how to teach with colleagues who had a lesser breadth of experience.

David was one of the veterinary profession's best applied physiologists/anatomists. He kept closely in touch with farming and the clinical practice of veterinary medicine through his herd of Red Devon cattle which he started with his first wife Joan.

He had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and understanding over the whole field of veterinary medicine. David made significant scientific contributions using his rare skills as a neurophysiologist and his wide knowledge of the physiology and anatomy of domestic animals. His particular interests, in the nervous system, its control of the digestive system, and in conduction in peripheral nerves are recorded as publications in prestigious journals such as the Journal of Physiology, Neuron and Nature.

His wife Frances, who he married in 1998, said: "He was a devoted family man, a devoted father and a very kind and loving husband. He created a wonderful family home for us, and the last ten years have just been so happy."

She added: "Having been a teacher at work, he was also an incredible teacher at home for Sarah, he taught her so many things.

"He was also gifted in practical ways. I'm an artist and he built me a studio, he built a tree house and a Wendy house and swings for Sarah – he loved to build things. He was the most devoted father you could wish for."

A softly-spoken Devonian, from a farming background, David played rugby with international players at the University of Liverpool, Birkenhead Park and Heriot's FP before dedicating himself to both the "Dick Vet" rugby clubs, the ladies (which he helped to found) and the men's (of which he was treasurer).

He had a great love of art, literature and the countryside.

David suffered a heart attack, aged 62, on his way to complete another round of professional examinations and despite the best efforts of the emergency services he did not recover.

His death leaves a huge void for his family and it is hoped that his colleagues, students and friends can help them by keeping his spirit and ideals alive.