Nigel Thorpe

Nigel Thorpe (born 1945) grew up in South London before moving, aged eleven, to East Grinstead, where he attended the grammar school. After gaining a first-class honours degree in History from University College, Cardiff, he joined HM Diplomatic Service. As well as positions in London, especially as head of Central European Department (1992–96), he served in Poland (twice), Bangladesh, Canada and Zimbabwe, finishing his career as ambassador to Hungary (1998–2003). He then worked for Vodafone before immersing himself in voluntary work in London. He has been married twice and is close to his children from both marriages.