Sudden death of university principal’s son Alasdair Downes

Alasdair Downes, son of the principal of Dundee University, has died suddenly at the age of 20.

Yesterday his father, Professor Pete Downes, said, “We are devastated by the sudden loss of Alasdair, who will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

“We are greatly appreciative of the many messages of support and sympathy we have received.”

Alasdair was a former pupil of Madras College in St Andrews and had been studying biology at Edinburgh University.

He ran cross-country and played hockey for Madras and Madras FP and had a general love of sports.

He was a keen music fan who could write expansively about his favourite songs and albums.

Among his wide range of other interests were film and literature, nature and mathematics.

His mother, Dr Elizabeth Downes, is a lecturer at Abertay University in Dundee.

Alasdair is also survived by his sister Amy (22).

Alasdair’s funeral, at Dundee Crematorium on Saturday, will be followed by a reflective celebration of his life at the Dundee University Chaplaincy Centre for family, friends and colleagues. Donations received at these events will go to the Marine Conservation Society and mental health charities.