Alan Abbott’s justification for undertaking a Degree in Arabic, was that ‘Arabic was rarely studied by Englishmen and was spoken across 16 countries from Morocco to Iraq. At the time Middle Eastern oil was becoming increasingly important, and travel to the area was freely possible. It seemed a wise long-term bet’. Alan’s interest in Arab culture and language lasted the whole of his life.

His medals, from left to right, are: Member of the British Empire, General Service Medal with Northern Ireland Clasp, Omani General Service Medal and Omani As Samood Medal.

In later life Alan worked as an IT Project Manager for the NHS.
Lieutenant Colonel Alan Abbott MBE died in hospital on 10th October 2021 with his partner Jill at his side.