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Dr Martin Hughes (2000) 1949-2020
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Dr Martin Hughes (2000) 1949-2020

It is with deepest regret that the College announces the death of Dr Martin Hughes, Life Fellow in Medicine, at the age of 71. Not only did he direct studies in Medicine for many years, but Martin also became a long-serving Tutor to students across the whole range of subjects.

Dr Martin Hughes (2000) 1949-2020
Dr Martin Hughes (2000) 1949-2020

Martin was an alumnus of Clare College from 1972, where he studied for a PhD in Pharmacology. In 1979 he graduated top of his year in medicine. Martin combined teaching with his GP practice. Until he retired, he was the Senior Partner at the Red House Surgery, Chesterton Road. He was also a popular broadcaster and writer, with books such as Bodyclock, explaining the relationship between time and human function, and also several GCSE resource books for schools, including Finding Out About Medical Research. His was a familiar voice as the medical correspondent for BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, and he was the presenter of a BBC television series Doc Martin's Casebook. He enjoyed writing novels on medical themes, publishing MediBlack in 2017.

Martin was a larger than life figure in College – always ready to use a range of vocabulary rarely heard on high table, but also equally ready to step up to the side of the fellow or the student or the member of staff who found themselves in difficulty, unwell or needing advice. As a Tutor he showed humanity, recognising that errors were not for ever: after they received some sage and fruity advice on life skills, tutees were invariably offered real help and support.

He will be much missed and the College sends condolences to Martin’s wife, Clare, and all the family.


Members and friends wishing to write to Dr Hughes’s family should please address correspondence to Alumni & Development Office, Magdalene College,  Cambridge, CB3 0AG, or contact alumni@magd.cam.ac.uk by email.