We are very sad to advise the passing of Peter Close who passed away on 16^th February 2025 aged 81.

As a pupil at Haileybury Peter was a Prefect and a Scholar. He played in the XV in 1959/1960 and the XI in 1959/61, also serving as Captain. From Haileybury he won an Exhibition to Caius College, Cambridge, achieving a DipEd and a Cricket Blue in 1965 having played 15 matches for the University Cricket Club with a total of 344 runs, with one 50. Peter, who bowled right-arm off break, also played minor counties Cricket for Dorset from 1962-1965.

In 1965 Peter returned to Haileybury to spend four happy years as an assistant master. In 1969 he moved to Bristol Grammar School, and from there to Monks’ Park School in 1972. He moved again to St John’s Comprehensive School in Epping in 1974 as Head of VI form, and then to Midhurst Grammar School in 1977 as Deputy Headmaster. In 1982 he was appointed Headmaster of Hardyes School, Dorchester and from there in 1988 to his last and very significant appointment as Headmaster of Cranbrook School in Kent, until his early retirement on health grounds in 1998.

A man of great integrity, Peter dedicated his life to education and enjoyed a broad and interesting career that spanned both private and state sectors. He was known for his ability to balance tradition with modern educational developments.

The Society extends it sincere condolences to Carole and their family at this sad time.