A CELEBRATED former director of Malvern's Royal Radar Establishment, and pioneer of radar technology in the town, has died aged 92.

Sir George Macfarlane played a key role in creating the vital technology that helped the nation triumph in the Second World War.

Born in Scotland, Sir George was evacuated to Malvern during the war, with his wife Barbara.

His engineering and mathematical talents soon gained him a respected position within the then Telecommunications Research Establishment and he was soon at the forefront of developing new technology.

His research even took him to the front line of battle, gathering intelligence on German radar and communications.

In the early 1960s he became director of the RRE, and was determined to break down the barriers between the establishment, and the residents of Malvern.

Open days were organised, inviting directors of industry, press, local dignitaries, and families of staff, which were a roaring success.

Well known figures were invited to the establishment to give talks to staff, and evening lectures were organised, filling the assembly halls to capacity.

Two years later, in 1965, the RRE was awarded the Freedom of Malvern, which Sir George received with pride.

He was invited to join the Rotary Club of Malvern, where he strengthened links with local residents even further.

His two children, Anne and John, went to school in the area.

Sir George was remembered fondly by his grandson Robert Macfarlane, who described him as a man of great dignity and integrity.

"Though he moved away from Malvern in later years, he loved the area, and the family would return at least once a year.

"He will be very much missed."