Names on the buses

767 Sir David Watson

Connections with Brighton and Hove : 1949-2015
David was a distinguished academic and a transformative figure in Brighton's educational life. He was the first Vice-Chancellor of the University of Brighton. He led the institution from its days as Brighton Polytechnic through to university status in 1992. He served until 2005. He was deeply committed to widening participation in higher education. He championed community engagement and lifelong learning. These values helped shape the university's inclusive ethos. Nationally, he was a trusted voice on education policy. He chaired key commissions, advised government, and published over 400 works on reform and access. He was knighted in 1998 for services to higher education. He later held senior roles at the Institute of Education and the University of Oxford. Outside his academic work, David was a talented pianist and passionate musician. He served as répétiteur for the Oxford Operatic Society in the 1980s. He gave occasional lunchtime concerts on the Brighton Falmer campus with violinist Andy Sherwood. He also delighted in accompanying students during informal musical evenings. These were hosted with Betty, his wife, at Green Templeton College. This passion for the arts was further developed through his role as chair of the Brighton Festival (2002-2005). His legacy endures in the lives he touched through education, music, and his generous spirit.

767 ADL Enviro400 - carried name since December 2025.