Plymouth University Lecturer And Law Expert Peter Shears Has Died

Tributes have been paid to a popular Plymouth university lecturer, who was also The Herald’s consumer expert. Peter Shears sadly passed away on Wednesday, November 9, after suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

Peter, from Saltash, was trusted for the sound advice he offered to readers on everything money-related and was always available to answer questions and help to solve problems. His mantra that the “consumer has the right to be stupid” underlined his expertise on the thorny subject of consumer rights.

The Professor of Consumer Law and Policy worked at Plymouth Polytechnic, subsequently the University of Plymouth, from 1979 until he retired in 2018. As well as writing for The Herald, he had a phone-in slot with Radio Devon for many years and contributed to the BBC and TSW programmes. He was also an contributor to You and Yours on BBC Radio 4.

Peter’s wife, Mary, said: “Our children and I are very sad but have wonderful memories of a fun-loving man.”

Clare Ainsworth, editor of The Herald, said: “Peter was highly regarded in Plymouth’s business and academic circles and was very popular with our readers. His column, his trusty advice and his humour were sadly missed when illness forced him to retire from writing.”

Tributes have also flooded in posted on the Funeral-Notices website. One said: “Pete was a lovely man. I worked with him at Plymouth Uni for 20 years and will always remember his kindness, friendship and humour, and be grateful to have known him.”

Another added: “Peter was a dear and loyal friend whose larger than life contribution to everything he touched will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege to know him. RIP.”

A service to celebrate Peter’s life will be held at Saltash Baptist Church on Friday, December 2 (11am), followed by refreshments at Saltash Rugby Club.

The family ask for family flowers only. Donations in Peter’s memory can be made to fightforsight.org.uk All enquiries to Co-operative Funeralcare, Saltash. Tel: .

Want more of the news you love? Sign up to our bespoke newsletters here.