THE son of a prominent chemist who spent his career working in Chalfont St Peter, has followed in his father's footsteps after being recognised as one of the top urology surgeons in the world.

Professor Roger Kirby, 55, was awarded the St Peter's Medal by the British Association of Urological Surgeons the highest accolade the association gives out for work in the field of Urology.

His father, the late Professor Kenneth Kirby, worked as head of cell chemistry at the Chester Beatty labs in Pollards Wood, Chalfont St Peter now part of Cancer Research UK.

Professor Roger Kirby, whose mother Janet, 89, still lives in Naphill, was voted for the award by colleagues in recognition of a lifetime of dedication to work in the field of prostate disease and in acknowledgement of his fund-raising activities for the British Urological Foundation.

The urological foundation raises money for kidney, testicular and bladder cancer. Prof Kirby said: "Naturally I am delighted by the award, and very honoured to have my work acknowledged by my peers."

Andrea Kon