The Jack Lees Tribute Fund

This was held on Friday 13th September at the University of Bristol.

A James Greaves apple tree has been planted in Jack’s memeory in Stoke Bishop close to the Downs where he loved spending time. As a small child, Jack fell out of a James Greaves tree as he had taken up a long length of guttering to create a track to send his cars down. Undeterred he climbed straight back up. A bench has also been put in Royal Fort Gardens in Jack’s memory. Jack spent many a lunch break there with his friends. The bench is six foot long so it is nearly long enough for him to lie down on.

Jack loved studying neuroscience and supported many other students in a variety of ways. From library study sessions, topic discussions, support with scientific equations and other maths problems, essay discussions to long revision sessions, Jack helped his peer group to thrive. ‘Due to my learning disabilities and English being my second language I have always struggled with grammar and spelling. Jack would read every single one of my essays, even if the topic I was writing on was different to his, to help me correct these issues.’ Neuroscience 2025 ‘Jack helped many students with statistical analysis, something we were encouraged to collaborate on. He had figured it out before most of us and willingly sat down to explain it to others. Jack made you feel like you were on the same level, even though it was clear he was ahead.’ Neuroscience 2025 ‘Jack’s support wasn’t just academic. It was the way he encouraged you, made you feel capable, and was genuinely there for you.’ Neuroscience 2025 ‘Jack made time for others, especially during exam season, when he knew some students needed extra support. Jack was patient, kind, supportive, and selfless in the help he gave, even if sometimes it meant that it put him slightly behind his schedule.’ Neuroscience 2025 Quote from VC “On behalf of the University of Bristol I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to Jack’s family and friends. Jack was in his second year studying Neurosciences, he was a well-loved student, and we know that many of his friends have been significantly affected by his loss. It is clear he was thriving, enjoying his studies at Bristol and had a bright future ahead of him. Jack tragically died last summer in the sea off the coast of Cornwall where his actions resulted in the lives of three students being saved.” Professor Evelyn Welch, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Bristol.