Unplanned Journey : From Moss Side to Eden

In 1920s Moss Side, Manchester, little did Alcon Charles Copisarow know, growing up, what a far-reaching and distinguished path he would go on to travel throughout his long life. Present at many of the key events of the twentieth century, he has played not one but many important roles in shaping the course of British and international affairs. Sir Alcon's scientific aptitude has taken him from vital World War II service in the application of radar technology to the world of international diplomacy as Scientific Counsellor and Government Laboratory director. His research in the Navy provided valuable insight into the effects of meteorological and solar activity upon long-range radar. Subsequently bringing his analytical skills to the then emerging arena of consultancy work, he was entrusted with many complex and sensitive assignments, improving the efficiency of the Bank of England and overhauling the administration of Hong Kong. His vision and leadership have been crucial to the genesis of among many others the Prince s Youth Business Trust, and the Eden Project. Throughout his life, the acumen with which he judged the merits of prospective job opportunities provides an exemplary lesson. Whilst his scientific, engineering and management talents and a lifelong love of new challenges have enabled him to excel in many fields, his intelligence, energy and charm shine through just as strongly in accounts of both fleeting encounters and lasting friendships, meeting the great, the good and the notorious, from Winston Churchill, Margaret Thatcher and the Royal Family to Roald Dahl, Paul McCartney and Richard Nixon.