Wednesday 11 February 2009

Brian Perren RIP

Telegrammed by Captain Deltic
It is with great sadness that we report the death of writer and author Brian Perren at the age of 80, following a short period in hospital.

Known fondly as the 'Gourmet Gricer' to his many friends Brian was a long term contributor to Modern Railways and his books included the invaluable TGV Handbook.

Brian had an infectious enthusiasm for life and the railways, and his presence enlivened many a worthy press trip.

Yet his irrepressible sense of fun concealed a professionalism in his research and a respect within the industry that was reflected in his writing.

In the issue of Modern Railways published before his death two articles by Brian typify his work - what is now, sadly, the last 'Service Aboard' column on the changing face of train catering and a definitive feature on TGV Duplex.

Brian's first published article appeared in the July 1954 issue of Trains Illustrated, the fore runner of Modern Railways.

Brian was in the process of completing a major article on Eurostar at the time he entered hospital.

Requiescat in pace et in amore