Death of pioneering doctor

Dr Robin Eliot Irvine - "Bobby" to all who knew him -, was a much-loved and internationally-respected figure in his specialist field.

The opening by Health Secretary Sir Keith Joseph of what was originally known as "the Geriatric Unit" at Bexhill Hospital marked the fruition of a long-held dream for Dr Irvine. It was an opportunity to put into practical effect under one roof his advanced concepts for the care and rehabilitation of the elderly. Dr Irvine, lived at Clyde Road, St Leonards from 1958 to 1986 when he retired to Guernsey.

He was from 1958 until his retirement, consultant physician in geriatric medicine to the old Hastings Health Authority.

His book, The Older Patient, written in collaboration with social worker Myrtle Bagnell, was in print for 25 years. He has chapters in six other books and had more than 60 articles published.

Ironically, Dr Irvine's death comes just as the League of Friends of Bexhill Hospital gives 1.185m to fund the modernisation and extension of the Irvine Unit.