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Michael Beresford-West |
Controversial ‘Grumpole’ of the Bailey
LEGAL legend Michael Beresford-West – known as ‘Grumpole of the Bailey’ – has died, aged 78.
The colourful and controversial QC, who was also a part-time judge, lived in the Barbican and was a familiar figure in Camden and Islington. He suffered a heart attack.
Mr Beresford-West had a distinguished career at the Bar both as a prosecutor and defender, appearing in many high-profile criminal trials.
And he often clashed with judges as he stood his ground in verbal conflicts.
Mr Beresford-West was “a learned friend” of Rumpole creator John Mortimer, QC. Born in Hampshire, the son of a Chief Constable, father-of-three Mr West was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1952.
He practised on the Western and Southern Circuit, where he became a leading prosecutor for the Inland Revenue.
Unusually, he had strong professional links with the other Inns: Gray’s and the Inner and Middle Temple.
With wife Sheilagh Davies, also a leading barrister, he enjoyed life away from the courtroom by swimming, playing golf, boating and music, particularly opera.
He was an accomplished jazz pianist.
Many of the younger lawyers he helped up the ladder have gone on to distinguished careers.
He proudly recalled that the Capital’s second most senior judge, Common Serjeant of London Brian Barker, was among his pupils.
A colleague said: “Michael earned a reputation as fearsome in cross-examination.
“He could be a bit grumpy and he was affectionately given the name Grumpole.”
He could often be seen pacing the Old Bailey puffing on his trademark pipe.
And on one occasion, being hurried back into Court 13 unexpectedly, he was on his feet when giggling jurors noticed smoke coming from his pocket.
“Your questioning of the final witness has obviously fired you up, Mr West,” quipped the judge and the QC made for the exit to extinguish his pipe. |
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