The FHT was very sad to hear that Richard Eaton passed away on 14 June 2019.

Richard was author and editor of the excellent College of Medicine Complementary Medicine Roundup, which was always brimming with useful information and links to research, reports and events of interest to not just College members, but anyone who shared his passion for holistic healthcare.

Despite his gentle approach and warm smile, Richard was a powerful voice for the complementary therapy and integrated healthcare community. He tirelessly campaigned for a better understanding of CAM, for practitioners to have the freedom to practise and promote their services, and for more members of the public to be able to access CAM.

A retired barrister, Richard and his wife, Marion, were former owners of a holistic health centre in Hastings, East Sussex, where they provided full facilities for 16 CAM practitioners. Richard also authored a small e-book, ‘Business Guide for Health Therapists: How to Find What You Need to Know’ – again, a clear demonstration of his commitment to supporting CAM practitioners and helping them to provide a much-needed service to their local community.

Our thoughts are with Richard’s family and friends. He will be sorely missed.

Read a tribute from Richard’s friend and colleague, Dr Michael Dixon >>

We are pleased to announce that Christopher Byrne was been elected as President by his peers on the FHT Governing Council. He takes over the role from Paul Battersby, who represented the interests of the FHT and its members for two consecutive years.

After a successful 20-year career as a chartered engineer, working for Rolls Royce and Bentley, followed by the Volkswagen Group, where he worked in customer care and then business management, Christopher embarked on a career in professional therapy. He initially trained in Swedish and sports massage, then went on to complete an MSc degree in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, which was closely followed by gaining clinical experience at the Hepingli Hospital and Beijing Academy in China. Today, Christopher enjoys running a busy therapy practice and training school in Crewe, Cheshire.

‘It is a privilege to be elected as the sixth President of the FHT and a great honour to be representing our members during these exciting times,’ said Christopher. ‘The therapy world is ever-changing and the FHT continues to be at the forefront of these developments.

‘As a full-time therapist and therapy trainer myself, I understand what a difference our members are making to their clients’ lives – whether that’s helping them to manage a long-term condition or injury, or simply encouraging them to make small lifestyle changes that will help to improve their overall wellbeing and self-esteem. I also appreciate the need for further recognition for the work our members do, whatever their therapy specialism, and particularly in the field of health and social care. During my time as President, I will be working hard to promote the safe and excellent therapy services our members have to offer, which benefit not just the public, but also other professionals striving to meet the nation’s needs.

‘Finally, I would like to thank my predecessor, Paul, who steered the FHT for two years. With an experienced FHT Governing Council and staff at my side, I hope to continue much of the excellent work he initiated, while also looking for new ways to support our members as they support others.’

For more information about Christopher and the FHT Governing Council, please visit www.fht.org.uk/about-us