Edward Coltart, Head's 1988-1993 (November 2016)

Edward

There was not an empty seat in Godalming parish church at the memorial service for Ed Coltart. It was a moving celebration of a life lived to the full and very bravely. Ed belonged to a large extended family and acquired and cherished a vast range of friends (539 on Facebook!). Edward was one of a number of outstanding pupils who came into Head’s from Great Walstead in the 1980s. From the start at Lancing he got involved in everything and worked hard. He was wise and mature with ‘a gravitas beyond his years’ and had a talent for leadership which led him to become Head of House and Jim Woodhouse’s last (joint) Captain of the School. He went on to read French and German at Leeds University and spent almost his entire career with Kirker Holidays. Ed suffered a spinal injury which confined him to a wheelchair for much of his life. He coped with this with typical good humour and stoicism. Shortly before his sudden and unexpected death at the age of 42 he was starting to set up a travel company for the disabled. He himself never let his physical limitations stand in his way and enjoyed water sports, travel and good living, developing a vast range of professional contacts, colleagues and clients. He was an impressive presence with an infectious laugh who loved a challenge and raised large sums for charity. Our sympathy goes out to his wife, Nuggy, and son Max and to his parents and whole family. His loss will be deeply felt but, as was said at the service, ‘Heaven will now be a happier place.’ RJT