Chris Bintcliffe, my friend and physics teacher, who has died aged 93, taught at Varndean grammar school for boys (now Varndean college), in Brighton, from 1949 to 1989. The school had a difficult brew of boys from all walks of life but it demonstrated a "big society" long before the expression was coined by politicians. Chris was actively involved in music, sports and theatre at school. Using his knowledge of physics, he produced a device that illuminated the stage in Shakespearean productions which, for many of us, excited a lifelong love of the Bard.
Chris was born in Skelmanthorpe, West Yorkshire, and read physics at Leeds University. He then studied for a postgraduate education diploma in 1939 before joining the army in 1940. A commission in the Royal Artillery led to action during the Normandy invasion, with a transfer to the Highland Light Infantry in early 1945.
As a platoon commander he was awarded the Military Cross after an incident when, with only an antitank rifle, he destroyed a large German gun that was inflicting heavy casualties on his men. These events, and the sight of destroyed German cities, made him a firm believer in European unity, hoping it would prevent further wars. The experience also contributed to his deep Christian faith, which led him to study for a theological diploma at King's College London.
Chris first met his future wife, Mary, in Paris during the summer of 1939. After meeting again in 1944, they married a year later. He quietly returned home from the second world war to help reconstruct the country by devoting his life to encouraging children to realise their full potential. The professionalism and integrity he had displayed in war were transferred to his life of teaching. He eventually became head of science and a senior sixth-form staff member at Varndean, with responsibility for university entrance applications.
After retiring, he and Mary were ushers at Glyndebourne for many years and spent time in Marbella, where he was a member of the Collegium Musicum, an amateur choir and orchestra.
Chris is survived by Mary, his son, Christopher, his daughter, Caroline, and two grandchildren, Javier and Meriel.