OBIT for HHJ RODGERS

OBIT for HHJ RODGERS

From The Times

June 14, 2004

OBITUARY FOR HHJ JOHN RODGERS

John W. Rogers, QC, circuit judge, was born on November 7, 1929. He died on May 12, 2004, aged 74.
A fair-minded and impartial circuit judge, John Rogers was also Honorary Recorder of the city of Canterbury for 15 years. Traditionally awarded to a senior lawyer, the position is a hallmark of distinction in the legal profession.
At Sevenoaks he was Head of School, and captain of cricket and rugby. Commissioned during National Service, he went up to Cambridge and joined the Air Squadron. Joining Lincoln’s Inn, he was called in 1955 and was awarded a Cholmondeley scholarship. He was elected a Bencher in 1984, and quickly established himself at the Criminal Bar. He took silk in 1975 and was a Recorder of the Crown Court.
In 1991 he was appointed a judge, sitting at various court centres including the Central Criminal Court. His warmth, kindness and objective approach to justice were widely respected.
He had many interests outside the law, notably cricket and bellringing.