Johnny’s Great Niece Ming Brookes has informed us that he passed away peacefully on Monday 6th February 2023. He was 96.5 years old, Ming was by his side for his last five days, holding his hand and keeping him comfortable and in company.

A much-admired Sidcotian and Old Scholar, we thank him for his cricket and rugby skills during his time in school. Adding to this his continued involvement with the Old Scholars Association and as a Founder and Trustee of Sidcot Building Trust Fund. 

The idea of the Sidcot Building Trust Fund was conceived by the Old Scholars Committee in 1958 and Johnny, then Secretary of SOSA signed the agreement. As a practicing Barrister he created the deed and has been a Trustee guiding the SBTF investment strategy since the Trusts inception. Johnny and the current Sidcot Buildings Trust Fund Trustees and donors have helped to secure the future of the school, for which we are eternally grateful.

Johnny was born in Walsall on 23rd July 1926 to parents Herbert Sargent Brookes and Millicent (Jackson). He was at Sidcot from 1938 to 1944. He secured an S.S. Leaving Scholarship; from 1944 – 1947 he served in the Royal Navy; 1950 LL.B, 1953 LL.M. (Birmingham); 1951 Bar Final Examination and called to the Bar (Lincoln’s Inn); 1951 – 1990 practiced at the Chancery Bar; 1989- Bencher of Lincoln’s Inn; 1953 – 1960 General Secretary of S.O.S.A., 1971 – 72 President S.O.S.A., 1959 – Founder and Managing Trustee (also of Sidcot Building Trust Fund.)

Below we have shared his President's Address from 1971, a larger version is also on the link below. We have also shared that of his successor Edward Fox (S: 1919 - 27.) If you would like a larger copy sent of either of these please email Rachele on alumni@sidcot.org.uk.  

John Brookes President's Address - SOSA 1971

Edward Fox President's Address - SOSA 1972

Memorial Video Tribute For Johnny Brookes  

Memorial Service Card

My Memories of Uncle Johnny