Mike Mortimore obituary

My friend Mike Mortimore, who has died aged 80, was a pioneering geographer who lived and worked in the dry lands of west Africa. He was motivated by a love of the people in that region, northern Nigeria in particular, believing that human endeavour could build sustainable livelihoods.

Mike was the eldest of three children born in Bermuda. His father, John Mortimore, was employed by Cable & Wireless, and his mother, Dorothy (nee Taylor), travelled the world with him. Mike was sent to Britain to attend Monkton Combe school, near Bath, where he enjoyed rowing and cycling. The Christian ethos of the school led him to a faith that would shape his life.