Doctor Gilbert Lord

Dr. G. B. Lord, MD, formerly Consultant Chest Physician to Rushden Hospital, Northamptonshire, died on the 2^nd February aged 73 years.

Gilbert Brook Lord was born on 15^th November, 1900, and graduated in Medicine at Manchester University in 1922 proceeding MD in 1925.  After a House appointment he became Assistant Tuberculosis Officer at Manchester.  In 1929 he was appointed Tuberculosis Officer to Northamptonshire County Council and in 1940 he became Medical Superintendent at Rushden Sanatorium, with responsibility for the organisation of the tuberculosis service in Northamptonshire.  An excellent administrator he built up a first class service and a fine after-care organisation.

In 1945, in view of the high incidence of tuberculosis in Northamptonshire boot and shoe workers, he was largely instrumental in obtaining one of the early mass radiography units.  Within the next five or six years repeated mass surveys, coinciding with the introduction of effective chemotherapy, reduced the incidence of tuberculosis in the industry from twice the rate in others to an extremely low level.  With the inception of the National Health Service and the decline in tuberculosis his work became more involved with other chest diseases.  His chief interest, however, remained in the field of tuberculosis and countless patients still remember with gratitude his skill and kindness.

A retiring man, his somewhat abrupt manner masked a delightful dry humour and kindly disposition.  He had a deep knowledge of English Literature, particularly Shakespeare, and it was appropriate that in 1961 he should retire to Stratford-upon-Avon.

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