We are sad to announce the death of our former member of Chambers, Sir John Drinkwater KC, who has died at the age of 94.

Sir John had a remarkable career. He served on the Arctic convoys and in submarines during the Second World War. Subsequently, he was Flag Lieutenant to the First Sea Lord (Lord Fraser of North Cape). After joining Chambers he became one of the leading practitioners at the Planning Bar and at the Parliamentary Bar, taking silk only 15 years after his call. He was involved in many of the leading cases of his day including the Channel Tunnel Bill, the inquiries on Sizewell B, the National Gallery Extension and the King’s Cross Fire and the Fares Fair litigation in the House of Lords.

He also had a distinguished record of public service, including serving as a Boundary Commissioner, Income Tax Commissioner, director of BAA plc and as a Recorder on the Western Circuit. He was knighted in 1988.

He was a much admired advocate and a greatly loved colleague in Chambers.