Alumnus Dr Geoff Gaunt visits SEE
On Friday 17th April, The School of Earth and Environment was visited by alumnus Dr Geoff Gaunt (BSc Geology 1955; PhD Earth Sciences 1976).
Geoff toured the Thin Section Laboratory with Harri Wyn Williams (Thin Section Laboratory Technician), including having the opportunity to view some thin sections of riebeckite microgranite from Ailsa Craig. These specimens brought back memories of viewing Professor Kennedy's samples of the same rock in the early 1950s while studying for his undergraduate Geology degree. Geoff visited the Kennedy library to view the latest geological map of the UK, part of which he surveyed himself during his career working for the British Geological Survey. He also viewed a small part of the School's extensive Teaching Collection of rock, mineral and palaeontological specimens. Geoff was able to see the unique large scale (1:50000) Geological Map of Yorkshire, which was produced as part of the Earth Sciences building refurbishment and is located off Red Route on Level 10.
Geoff said "I was absolutely entranced by the visit. Many of the items seen triggered vivid memories of the early 1950s Department of Geology (then in Hillary Place) which for a few precious years became a sort of home-from-home. Although the present SEE is vast by comparison, I gained the impression that there is still a strong sense of esprit de corps. Hopefully there are now enough geology students to field football and cricket teams without have to press-gang surplus geographers, into our teams on Saturdays."
During his visit to the University, Geoff also visited several other areas of the Campus, including the Refectory and Student Union. Geoff has visited the School on previous occasions, including attending the event to mark the opening of the £23million new School of Earth and Environment Building in April 2010.
For more information about visiting the School of Earth and Environment and/or the wider University Campus, please contact Joanna Bowen via alumni(at)see.leeds.ac.uk
