1947-2021

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Dr John Potts was born in Lier, Belgium. He qualified BDS from Manchester Dental School in 1972, completing an intercalated BSc, gaining a double first and winning the Charles Henry Preston Prize, awarded to the top dental student. Trained in pathology and gaining his FRCPath, he worked in Birmingham Dental Hospital and School of Dentistry until moving to Cardiff in 1992 as a senior lecturer/consultant in oral pathology. For many years, he worked in pathology, as well as contributing to oral medicine clinics.

Dr Potts supported clinical services, playing a crucial role in the care of many thousands of patients, his diagnoses being crucial to the management of those with the most serious orofacial diseases.

An enthusiastic teacher, John played a key role in providing clinical and technical input to the digitisation of services in the Dental Hospital and School, overseeing the introduction of computers to all clinical areas. He was instrumental in introducing the SALUD and LIFT-UP systems in the clinics.

For many years, John chaired the library committee and played a crucial role in ensuring that library and study facilities in Cardiff Dental Hospital and School were amongst the most comprehensive in the UK.

John was one of six founder members of the British Society for Oral Medicine. The society recognised John's contributions to oral medicine and the society, awarding him Honorary Fellowship in 2016.

He was an external examiner for other dental schools, and for a period of time covered oral pathology for another dental hospital in addition to his role in Cardiff.

A lifelong Manchester United supporter, he got to see them one final time in early 2020. In his youth, he played hockey for his school and university, and played in staff/student games at Birmingham University. He also enjoyed squash, mountain climbing, and was part of Kendal Mountain Search & Rescue Team. A keen walker, he remained a member of a local walking group with Angus his dog until the first lockdown.

He mentored several people, from students to consultants, who have commented on how kind and supportive he was towards them.

Dr Potts continued working for Cardiff University Dental Hospital and School after the onset of serious illness, which he fought valiantly and with spirit, joining online meetings until recent weeks.

He is survived by his wife Kay, children Lindsay & Christopher (Alison died in 2014).

Kay Potts and Lindsay Roberts