Geneva, July 2005

It is with great sadness that we announce the demise of John David Williams (Secretary-General 1979 - 89; President 1989-93) on the 11th of July 2005. He passed away peacefully after a brief illness due to lymphoma and chemotherapy.

His various contributions to the furtherance and the promotion of the objectives of the ISC cannot be greater. He was of great help to those who need them. He was at the helm of the ISC journal in 1998 and took it to what it is now - a successful leading journal in the field of antimicrobial chemotherapy.

He was awarded the Hamao Umezawa Memorial Award in Sydney (1997) for his contribution in chemotherapy and infection. In the recent ICC in Manila (June 2005), he was honoured as an Honorary member of the ISC. He was also made honorary professor from many overseas universities which he was associated with. He carried on working even after retirement f! rom the University until he could not do anymore. He left his mark throughout the world - many overseas students passed through his department and through his personal contact. His work was his life.

There will be a memorial service in London to be held in late September/early October. Those who would like to be notified please contact moosdeen@ischemo.demon.co.uk.

The ISC would like to create a David Williams Memorial Award - a sum of money to be awarded to the best presentation at ICCs. Contributions will be most welcomed. Please contact Professor Faridah Moosdeen at the ISC Secretariat, e-mail as above.