Aughton neuroscientist meets Queen at royal visit to bowel research centre

Mar 7 2013 by Tom Duffy, Ormskirk Advertiser

A NEUROSCIENTIST from West Lancashire met the Queen when she opened the National Centre for Bowel Research.

David Bulmer, 38, who grew up in Aughton, chatted to the Queen on the day of her recent visit to the new bowel research centre at Queen Mary, University of London.

David said: “The Queen and Prince Philip both showed real interest in our work. They both asked questions. I explained what we do in relation to pain relief, which the Queen described as ‘fascinating.’

“Prince Philip stayed behind for five minutes, chatting with staff and students.”

David went to Town Green primary and then Ormskirk grammar before completing a pharmacology degree at Manchester University.

He studied for a Phd at University College London, and started work at St Barts and London medical school four years ago.

He lives in Saffron Walden with his wife and four year-old daughter.

David, who supports Liverpool FC, also spoke to the Advertiser about the research that he is involved with.

He added: “A lot of the work is based around healthy tissue. We work with it to try and understand more about abdominal pain and how to alleviate it. We are trying to manage pain and alleviate suffering.”

David’s dad Colin remembers his son as a football-loving schoolboy.

He said: “David was very normal growing up. He loved Liverpool FC and went to Aughton St Michael’s cubs. He always enjoyed maths and science from a very early age.

“While at Ormskirk grammar he was taught by Mark Schofield, who was a very positive influence.”

The Queen opened the centre on February 27, when she also met survivors of the July 7 bombings who were treated at the hospital.

The Queen and the Duke also took a tour of the new London Children's Hospital.