Obituary: Anthony Morgan FIQ (1956–2022)

IQ saddened to report the passing of past President and huge supporter of the organization

PAST President of the Institute of Quarrying, Anthony Morgan FIQ, passed away in April of this year. Anthony had been a huge supporter of the Institute for most of his working life, actively serving the South Wales branch, IQ Council, and the IQ Board of Trustees where he ultimately served as President during 2015–2016. Leaving school in 1972, Anthony secured a student apprenticeship with Robert Hobbs Group at Stormy Down where he studied mechanical engineering. Following the successful conclusion of his studies, Anthony was placed on the Hobbs Group management trainee programme. During this period, he worked on major schemes such as the M4 Newport to Pont Abraham project, amongst many others. In later years, Wimpey Minerals took a controlling interest in Hobbs and Anthony would eventually become managing director of the company under its ownership by Anglo American up until the point where the quarrying interests were sold to CRH. During these years Anthony was responsible for exploring several quarrying opportunities for the company, helping to increase the assets of the organization both in the UK and overseas. It was in 2009 when Anthony left CRH and joined Griffiths, eventually becoming managing director of the company in 2018 following the acquisition of the company by CRH. Under Anthony’s stewardship the business thrived and grew with the development of such projects as the new recycling depot at Cardiff docks in 2020.

Alongside his career, Anthony committed much of his time to support the Institute of Quarrying in a range of roles, helping to create a vibrant branch in South Wales and providing opportunities for members to develop their competence. This was the driving force that Anthony carried through to the Council and then to the Board. He was a passionate advocate of ensuring the Institute delivered on its objectives in supporting members throughout their careers. Anthony was one of the architects who helped to shape and modernize the governance of the Institute to ensure it had a sustainable future for the members. He encouraged and supported others in becoming a member and was seen as a mentor by many that he encountered. Martin Riley FIQ, the current IQ President, said: ‘Anthony gave so much of his time and knowledge to the Institute, helping to drive the organization forward. He was often the first person others would look to for advice and to seek his views on the Institute. His invaluable contribution helped focus the organization for the benefit of members and will always be remembered fondly.’ A huge sports fan, Anthony was a lifelong supporter of Chelsea Football Club and an accomplished golfer in his own right. Anthony was committed to his family and is survived by his wife Hilary, sons Robin and Daniel, their partners and grandchildren.