M.V. Brian

[Michael Vaughan, called 'MVB'], 1919-1990. Entomologist and ecologist, author of Ants (1977). Lifelong student of social insects as lecturer in zoology at Glasgow University 1946-53 and officer-in-charge of Furzebrook Research Station 1953-82. 'A true intellectual', developed use of statistics and conceptual ecology as well as advancing his own special subject: the ecology and behaviour of British ants. OBE (1982). Painter and pianist; keen gardener and beekeeper. Bearded, guarded expression; 'a modest man with a retiring disposition.' Loved gossip, but kept close about his own (several-times married) life.