Obituary: Renowned Norwich intellect Dr Nicholas Groves dies

Nicholas Groves spent a lifetime learning and the accolades he obtained along the way are testament to both his efforts and passions.

Nicholas William Groves was born in North Walsham on April 29, 1956. The first born of Mary and Ron Groves, brothers Simon and Paul followed in 1959 and 1961, respectively.

From an early age, the former Paston Grammar School pupil was interested in music and had both piano and organ lessons. 

An avid fan of Blue Peter, his insatiable curiosity for discovery and learning would remain with him throughout his life. 

In 1973, Dr Groves read music at the University College of Wales, now Aberystwyth University. 

And his academic career began here - he became a mentor, teacher, and meticulous scholar with a wide range of skills and experiences. 

He would go on to study at the University of London in 1989, gain a postgraduate from the University of East Anglia in 1994, a masters in 2000, and a PhD in Anglican Ritualism in Victorian Norwich from Lampeter in 2008. 

He had many other strings to his bow including qualifications in Welsh language and a PGCE. This led him to a career in teaching, both in secondary schools and latterly in adult education.

Dr Groves became a founding fellow of the Burgon Society, which deals with the history, design, and development of academic dress.  

He served as its dean of studies until 2003 and remained on the council until 2011, regularly supervising and examining candidates for the society's fellowship. He was also the editor of Shaw's Academical Dress.

He designed and revised the robes of a number of UK institutions, including the award-winning 2011 PhD and masters' robes for the University of Malta. 

Andrew Hogg, society chair, said: "He clearly inspired the respect and affection of his friends, fellows, and members of the society.

"He was enthusiastic, kind, deeply knowledgeable, entertaining and a wonderful presenter. 

"In time we will consider what long-lasting memorial we can propose to honour his legacy." 

While involved in several organisations - founding Norwich Croquet Club and the Centre group – the Octagon Unitarian Chapel in the city became a spiritual home for him. 

As well as its organist, he introduced a monthly LGBTQ+ coffee and cake evening there and in 2022 he was appointed a trustee. 

Chapel member and friend, Lynne Davies, said: "Here he found his second spiritual home; at times bemused by the non-conformity of our beliefs and services, which would be very different to his known tradition of Anglicanism. 

"He was both professionally and personally principled and when he shared his views, he did not mince his words.   

"He also had a delightfully camp wit, was generous with his time and knowledge, and was a very private person, who quietly supported others." 

His publications are also numerous; one of his last was a biography of Charles Franklyn. 

Other accolades include becoming the director of the Centre for Parish Church Studies, parish archivist and director of music at St George Church in Tombland, a subscribing member of the Ecclesiastical History Society and of the Ecclesiological Society, an elected fellow of the Royal Historical Society, and trustee of Norwich Historic Church Trust. 

Mark Wilson, of Norfolk Churches Trust, added: "Dr Nicholas Groves was a much-loved friend and colleague and will be greatly missed.

"His knowledge of all things to do with the churches of Norfolk and further afield was second to none. 

"His lifelong contribution to the research of the historic churches of Norwich and Norfolk will be everlasting and his name will endure on the bookshelves of many across the country. 

"Personally, he was an inspiration to me. His guidance, advice and friendship has positively shaped my own life in work and at home." 

Dr Nicholas Groves died on June 29 at the Priscilla Bacon Lodge.