Secretariat

Obituary: Dr Catherine Dorkin

Members will be very sorry to learn of the death of Dr Catherine Dorkin (Mrs Catherine Darnborough), on 26 June 2003.

Dr Dorkin graduated from the University in Chemistry and Zoology in 1943, returning in 1946 to read for an MSc in Textile Industries. Her PhD was awarded in 1954 for a thesis on The Physical Properties of Rayon in relation to fabric behaviour. Continuing in the Department of Textile Industries as a post-doctoral research worker, Dr Dorkin went on to establish an international reputation in the then relatively unknown field of clothing technology, undertaking pioneering scientific research into methods of joining fabrics for the purpose of making clothing, as well as other aspects of garment construction. For many years, her post was supported by funding from the Clothing Institute, an association formally recognised when she was given the title Clothing Institute Research Fellow and Honorary Lecturer in Clothing Manufacture. Dr Dorkin was the long-standing editor of the Institutes Clothing Research Journal and was highly sought after as a consultant by many other organisations and research associations. A very popular and valued colleague within the Department of Textile Industries, Dr Dorkin played a considerable part in organising postgraduate teaching within her field of expertise and was closely involved in the establishment of a postgraduate diploma course in clothing technology. She also represented the University on the Clothing Manufacture and Technology Committee of the Yorkshire and Humberside Council for Further Education.

Dr Dorkin retired from the University in 1981.

The funeral will be held at Stonefall Crematorium, Wetherby Road (A661), Harrogate (opposite the Yorkshire Showground) at 3.00 p.m. on Monday, 7 July 2003. The family have asked that no flowers be sent but donations may be made to the Yorkshire Wildlife Fund.

The flag on the Parkinson Tower will be flown at half-mast on the day of the funeral, as a mark of respect.

Published: 3 July 2003