You might not know much about Peterborough but it’s given the world some famous and notable people. Not only have many entertainers come from Peterborough but also some big names in science and engineering. Here we take a look at some of Peterborough’s historic and current personalities.
An absolute legend in the world of astronomy was George Alcock MBE. He discovered a staggering five comets and five exploding stars. Born in 1912, his fascination with astronomy began when he was eight years old and witnessed a partial solar eclipse. His first comet was discovered in 1959 and his last star in 1991. Amazingly, he wasn’t an astronomer by trade but was in fact a school teacher who carried out his stargazing in his spare time.
The founding partner of the global giant Rolls Royce was born in the area in 1863. Sir Henry Royce left for London but returned to the city to work as an apprentice on the Great Northern Railway. His ashes are buried at Alwalton Church. Rolls Royce has become synonymous with high quality and if you want to have a Rolls Royce of a website, then think about Peterborough Web Design and visit www.routetoweb.co.uk.
One of the creators of the Perkins diesel engine was born in Peterborough in 1889. Frank Perkins founded the city-based company called Perkins and was an engineer convinced of the great potential for diesel engines. He believed that they would be more fuel efficient and the company designed these engines right in the heart of the city. The Vixen was the first engine and was tested in 1932.
At the present, Peterborough can boast some sporting greatness too. Martin ‘Wolfie’ Adams is from Market Deeping and he won the British Darts Organisation championship in 2007. More recently seen on TV is Louis Smith of British gymnastics. His amazing achievements led to Britain bringing home the first medals in the sport for 80 years.
Many of the nation’s footballers have started their careers in the city. David Bentley was born in Peterborough and he enjoyed success with Arsenal, Blackburn Rovers and nine appearances for England. Former England and Arsenal keeper, David Seaman, was a member of the Peterborough youth team.
The world of entertainment has also been enriched by people from Peterborough and one of the city’s most famous sons is Aston Merrygold of JLS fame. Although the group is no longer together, they achieved huge success after appearing on X Factor and his family still live in the city. The lead singer of Erasure, Andy Bell, was born in the city and whilst at Dogsthorpe Junior School, joined the school choir.
Another huge star, though not in stature, to hail from the city is Warwick Davis. Best known for his roles in Star Wars, in all six Harry Potter films and starring in Labyrinth with David Bowie. Most recently he has appeared on An Idiot Abroad with Karl Pilkington and Ricky Gervais. The legend Ernie Wise lived in Peterborough for many years on Thorpe Road and residents have fond memories of him walking his dog called Boots. As you can see, Peterborough is a pretty star-struck location.
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