By: Arthur C Lockyear MBE
Photos by: John Attle
Eric Barlow was born in Foxes Row, Brancepeth, the son of an estate worker, and spent his early childhood in the heart of County Durham. His family later moved to Browney Colliery, where he attended the local primary school. In November 1963 the family relocated to Banbury, though Eric’s connection to the North East remained a defining part of his life.
Eric was educated at Banbury Grammar School (later Banbury School) and, upon leaving at 18, began his career with Alcan International, the aluminium research centre in Banbury. Over nearly forty years he built a distinguished career as a chemist and project leader, working extensively in Switzerland and Germany on can‑making and painted sheet process and product development. His work supported German factories for many years, including four years living in Switzerland and five years commuting weekly to Germany. Eric retired in 2013 and continues to live in the Banbury area with his wife, Sally. They have no children.
Despite more than six decades living away from County Durham, Eric has always retained a strong emotional bond with the North East and the City of Durham. As a child he spent every Easter and summer holiday with his grandmother in Brandon, and his heritage has remained central to his identity. A lifelong Sunderland supporter, he began following the club at the age of six and still regularly attends matches.
Sport has always played an important role in Eric’s life. He has played many disciplines over the years, and today his main interests include table tennis—where he also coaches—alongside golf and long‑distance hiking.
Eric’s family has deep links to the Freemen. His maternal grandfather, Emmerson Heron, owned a plumbing business in the city and was himself a Freeman. Through this connection, Eric’s father, John Barlow, also qualified, with the hope that the tradition would continue to the next generation. Many of Eric’s cousins are Freemen, and he has maintained a strong sense of North‑East heritage throughout his life.
In honour of his parents, his family history, and his enduring connection to the City of Durham, Eric expresses his sincere pride in seeking to continue this tradition by becoming a Freeman of the City of Durham.