From Israel

It was with deep sorrow that I learned of the death of Prof. Arnold Aspinall. Prof. A. Aspinall was one of pioneers of archaeological geophysics in the world. I must note that a first paper in English that I have read in the former Soviet Union on archaeological prospection was just paper of Prof. Aspinall about the resistivity method application in archaeology.

From my personal communications – he was a top level specialist and nice man…

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Remembering Arnold

When I joined Bradford in 1990, Arnold had just handed over as Head of Department to Mark Pollard, having seen the Department through some difficult years. He was a wonderful colleague for a new lecturer to have: positive, supportive and good-humoured. Advice was given when asked for, but without interfering, and a cheerful chat with Arnold really could brighten up a busy day. More than that, he was a link with the pioneering days of archaeological science, and a reminder of how much our crazy discipline has achieved in a couple of academic generations. A good man, fondly recalled.

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Prof. Arnold Aspinall – ISAP Honorary Member

It is with great sadness that we have to announce to the Society the death of Arnold Aspinall. He was an inspiration, as teacher and mentor, to a generation of British archaeological geophysicists. At Bradford, where he set up the first undergraduate degree in Archaeological Science, his passing will be deeply felt. There will be a tribute to Arnold in the next ISAP Newsletter.

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A wonderful person

I was so sorry to hear about Arnold. When I arrived in 1983 at Bradford to work with Keith Manchester, I met a man who was passionate about archaeological science – without him at Bradford many of us (staff and students who have taught, and completed degrees, in Bradford), including myself, would not have achieved half as much as we all undoubtedly have. While his research was focused on archaeological prospection, he was particularly supportive at Bradford of what is now termed ‘bioarchaeology’, and I am most grateful for that. A true gentleman and great character.

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Passing of Arnold Aspinall

Arnold was one of the great influencers in my life: from the first year physics classes to my final year where he stood as my supervisor he always offered an uncompromisingly enthusiastic delight in seeing his students learn develop and finally graduate.

Although I went into industry I stayed in touch with Arnold, often taking him out to lunch at some obscure pub miles from anywhere, then back to his house for a tour of the garden and tea.

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