Iain L Kennedy Reid
1943-2023
Class of 1961

Iain’s passing occurred in Banstead, Surrey, in the early summer of 2023. Born in Glasgow in September 1943, he was the son of D M Kennedy Reid and Elizabeth T (Rankine) Reid. He was brought up in Glasgow, as well as for a time in Aberdeen. After attending Glasgow High School, he went on to the University of Glasgow.

He then embarked on a long and distinguished career in civil engineering. Iain’s early career was spent in Scotland, following which he gained international experience through engineering projects in the Middle East, North Africa, and Hong Kong. This varied practice led ultimately to his long-lasting role with WS Atkins plc, based in Epsom and living in Banstead, and to his specialisation in the repair and strengthening of motorway roads and bridges – an area of expertise that frequently carried heavy responsibilities, in participating in decisions about motorway repair that had important safety implications.

In the later years of his career, Iain turned also to research and writing. His publications included Concrete Bridge Strengthening and Repair (London: Thomas Telford Ltd., 2009) and the co-authored and equally comprehensive Steel Bridge Strengthening (London: Thomas Telford Ltd., 2001). Both volumes contain numerous examples of repair techniques, many of which Iain had devised and worked on. These approaches are still used today and encourage young engineers to think laterally and avoid the seemingly easier but disruptive option of closing bridges for repair. Iain was particularly proud of having introduced an innovative girder with considerable versatility for repairing motorway bridge supports.

Iain was predeceased by his parents, and is survived by his longtime companion Cécile Bradwell, as well as by five cousins and other extended family members. All who knew him well were aware that he experienced recurrent health challenges, which became especially acute during his later years. Nevertheless, he embraced life in its many facets. In early life, he found deep fulfilment in the Boy Scouts, and was proud of his recognition as a Queen’s Scout and of his Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. He later took delight in reunions with his former scouting friends, as well as taking a leading role in maintaining social contacts among WS Atkins retirees.

Although most of his adult life was spent ‘furth of Scotland,’ he was always a proud Scot and took every opportunity to wear his kilt accordingly. He felt an especial attachment to the Firth of Clyde, where he sailed as a young man and within sight of which he maintained, for a number of years, a holiday flat.

Iain was a kind and generous man who valued family and friends, as well as being an esteemed and creative member of his chosen profession, and he will be greatly missed and long remembered as such.

Tribute written by Iain’s family and friends.