Today, we have received the sad news of the passing of former pupil, Andrew James Digwood.

Andrew attended Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School from 1984 to 1994 and, after studying Law at Durham University, met his wife, Helen. They married in 2010 and in 2011 and 2015 respectively, went on to have their two children, George and Lucy.

Andrew began his legal training in 1999 with an international law firm, working in their offices in Birmingham and Leeds, it was here where he gained his qualifications. Andrew remained with the firm until 2004, working primarily in intellectual property disputes.

In 2004 Andrew relocated to York to join a regional law firm, where, as well as the experience in intellectual property disputes, he broadened his dispute resolution practice to advise on a range of other matters including property, contract, shareholder, partnership, and inheritance disputes.

Until recently, Andrew worked at Rollits, where he specialised in commercial dispute resolution, and in the spring of 2022, he became an Associate Director based at the SJP Law’s York office. Andrew also served as the former President and current Vice President of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

Andrew’s funeral was held on Thursday 24th November at York Minster. As a sign of respect, the York Mansion House flag flew at half-mast. This is a rare honour which is normally reserved for serving Councillors and Aldermen and is a true testament to Andrew’s standing and recognition in his contribution to the city of York.

We, at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School send our deepest condolences and prayers to Andrew’s family. Andrew will be loved and missed by all who knew him.