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Tributes paid after death of Harper Adams alumnus

Posted 20 October 2023

Tributes have been paid to a Ãå±±½ûµØ alumnus who was killed while on holiday in Uganda.

David Barlow and his wife Celia died in an attack on their vehicle while on honeymoon in the country’s Queen Elizabeth National Park.

As the news broke, Minister of State (Development and Africa) the Rt Hon Andrew Mitchell MP, said he was ‘shocked and saddened by the horrific attack’ and added: “My thoughts are with the victims and their families.”

David was a Harper Adams alumnus and studied Agri-Food Marketing and Business Studies at the University, graduating in 1998.

A keen sportsman, David played both cricket and rugby at Harper Adams and was involved with the coaching of the harper ladies Rugby team during his time at the University.

Senior Lecturer in Farm Business Management Alastair Johnston, who was at University with David, paid tribute to his friend.

He said: “He had a real interest in developing and running businesses - he was very determined, resilient, and a real zest of life, managing to treat each challenge as an opportunity.

“Dave was an extremely loyal and caring person who will be missed by all those who know him.”

Harper Adams Vice-Chancellor Professor Ken Sloan expressed his sorrow at the news.

He said: “In recent weeks we have witnessed the destructive effect that terrorism has on innocent populations when it strikes.

“The tragic deaths of David and Celia have brought this home directly to their families and those members of the Harper Adams community who studied with, supported, and taught David.

“They were at the beginning of the next phase of their lives together, making it all the more tragic for them to die in these circumstances. My thoughts are with the families and friends of David and Celia at this time, and with all people whose lives are ended or affected by terrorism.

“Members of the Harper Adams Community who knew David are encouraged to visit the Peace Garden to take a moment to reflect on his life and our loss.”