The Peter Little Tribute Page

The Peter Little Tribute Page

Thursday 28th February 2008
It is with very great sadness that Merchant Taylors’ Schools announced the death of Mr Peter Little, Master i/c Rowing. As many of you will know, Peter Little has been ill for almost two years and has been receiving intensive treatment at Fazakerley Hospital Palliative Care Unit and latterly at Clatterbridge.

Peter

Before joining Merchants in 1993, Peter had previously spent over sixteen years in the oil industry based in Aberdeen. Prior to this, he left school at age sixteen and joined the Royal Navy, where he spent twelve happy years. During his time in the Navy, Peter became a very successful and accomplished rower and rowed for the Royal Navy 1^st Eight. In addition, he played rugby to a good standard for a number of years.
Since joining us in 1993, it is fair to say that Peter has transformed what was a minority sport and turned rowing into a major part of our extra-curricular life. Each year over 100 boys and girls attend numerous national regattas and have even qualified for Henley in recent years. This is a testament to Peter’s drive, determination and enthusiasm for the sport. Equally important to Peter was his passion for raising money for good causes. Some of the money raised has been used for new boats and equipment for the Boat Club, but generous contributions have also been made to a number of good causes. Last summer Peter said: “It is all part of the young people’s education. It is about giving and not just taking, that is the most important lesson we can give them.” According to Peter’s son, Antonee, himself a part-time rowing coach at the school, in the last fifteen years Peter and the Boat Club have raised over £100,000 for charity – an outstanding achievement.
Everyone who knew Peter was captivated by his infectious enthusiasm. He was cheeky but very positive, often irreverent but always self-depreciating. It was no surprise that at the end of last year he was awarded the ‘Radio City Local Hero’ award for his contribution to rowing and for his fundraising activities. Peter Little has certainly been a very important part of the Merchant Taylors’ family and he will be enormously missed by us all.

Book of Remembrance
There is a Book of Remembrance available for people to sign during School hours, located in the Troutbeck Room in School House.