Myrddin “Merv” Rees (29 May 1950 – 26 November 2025)

Dear colleagues,

It is with great sadness that I share the news of the death of our friend and colleague, Merv Rees OBE DL FRCS, on 26 November 2025. Merv was a giant of liver surgery: a pioneering clinician, President of AUGIS 2006-2008, and an internationally respected surgical leader, whose influence extended far beyond his own practice. He devoted his career to his patients, and the advancement of Hepatobiliary surgery. He trained generations of surgeons, and helped shape the standards that guide us today. Remarkably, Merv performed his final liver resection as recently as 13 October 2025. His contribution to our field is immeasurable, and his loss will be deeply felt across our community. Many of us will also remember him as a generous mentor and a valued friend.

As many of you know, Merv had been living with advanced prostate cancer and faced every stage of his illness with the same courage and determination he had long asked of his patients. He attended the recent AUGIS Annual Scientific Meeting in Glasgow, where he continued to engage with his inimitable insight, energy, and wit.

Our thoughts are with his family, his friends, his colleagues at Basingstoke, and all who had the privilege of working with him. I know you will join me in expressing our profound sadness at his loss.

Miss Fenella Welsh 
Consultant Hepatobiliary & General Surgeon
Clinical Service Lead Hepatobiliary Surgery