The Queen's College Record 2020

insect, a study which resulted in an anaphylactic response, causing him to collapse,
feeling a sense of ‘impending doom.’ Fortunately, nursing staff were able to inject
adrenaline and he recovered.
Bill’s workload, be it clinical or academic, was prodigious. In the mid-1960s he saw
some 6000 patients with seasonal asthma in one year but was asked by managers
to ‘see fewer patients’, a suggestion that was not greeted warmly. He was a prolific
author and was known throughout the field of clinical allergy as a great supporter
of younger colleagues. His attitude towards patients remained unchanged, treating
them as best he could, ‘be they a pauper or a head of state.’ His opinion was sought
throughout the world, not least in the late 1970s when he was summoned to treat
President Saddam Hussein. Bill advised his patient to stop smoking but had little
belief he would. He was wrong and the man whom he described as ‘my most grateful
patient’ later invited him and his family back.
Obituaries
Official retirement meant little for Bill; for over 20 years he worked as an honorary
consultant at Guy’s Hospital. He continued to travel and lecture, giving his last lecture
when aged 105, and his last interview on his 108 th birthday. He acted as an expert
witness aged 100, and his publication record stretched from 1941 until 2019.
Queen’s always had a special place in Bill’s life, and he was thrilled to be elected an
Honorary Fellow in 2012. He described this as ‘the nicest thing that’s ever happened
to me – aside from the day my late wife accepted my marriage proposal.’ Bill greatly
enjoyed attending the Boar’s Head Gaudy, especially listening to the choir. When the
College re-introduced its own beer, he was tremendously proud that it was called
‘Frankland Ale.’ Bill was a generous benefactor
to the College, in recent years supporting
a doctoral student researching factors
influencing the development of atherosclerosis.
Bill was particularly pleased to hear that the
thesis had been successfully defended and
was looking forward to reading it himself.
Bill was a remarkable man, who accomplished
so much during his long and varied life. Guided
by an unwavering Christian faith he set and
expected high standards, but was always keen
to help his fellow man, regardless of their race,
religion or creed. Not only was he a very caring
person, he was also great fun to be with; the
University, and especially the College, are
poorer places following his death.
Paul Watkins
College Record 2020 | The Queen’s College 123