John Merritt

John Merritt is my father and is now 85 years old. During his lifetime, he has worked tirelessly in education, specialising in reading. He has devoted not only his working life to education, but has spent much time out of hours working with people without pay in order to help others spread the word. He was Professor of Education at the Open University until his retirement in 1985, but has continued to work, publishing many papers and doing much voluntary work for the community.

Even at the age of 85, he is still fit, having partaken of sports all his life, winning many cycling trophies in his youth and more latterly running and orienteering, although he no longer competes. He still maintains his fitness by walking and will frequently be seen on the Lakeland fells.

My Dad would be a testament to what a healthy lifestyle brings and would be an example to sportsmen and women of all ages.