Centenarian Fencer's Scientific Legacy Lives On

Derek Evered, a centenarian renowned for his contributions to biochemistry and fencing, has passed away at 100. Evered began his career as a lab assistant and rose to become a distinguished reader in biochemistry at Chelsea College, now part of King's College London. His prolific research yielded over 125 published papers in esteemed journals, and he pioneered the master's program in biochemistry at his institution, mentoring over 500 students.

Beyond his scientific achievements, Evered was a passionate fencer. He founded Egham Fencing Club in Surrey in 1976, serving as its chief coach and president for nearly 50 years. Despite facing early retirement from academia due to university funding cuts, he dedicated himself fully to fencing, authoring a manual on the discipline and contributing to British Fencing's magazine for 28 years.

Born in Lewisham, South London, Evered discovered fencing by chance during his youth. His enduring patience and gentle demeanor, marked by his signature phrase, "Littly social, littly social," left a lasting impact on his students. He remained passionate about the sport until his final days, always inquiring about club members.