We are delighted to award the 2023 Bickersteth Memorial Medal to Else Churchill.
The award is made to persons or organisations who have made notable and exemplary contributions to family history studies.
Else Churchill, a familiar name in the world of genealogy. Else graduated from the University of Kent with an honours degree in European studies and politics, later studying at the London Metropolitan University where she was awarded a Diploma in Library and Information Studies in 1987. Prior to this she had been appointed Librarian here at IHGS where she remained until leaving for the Society of Genealogists where she is currently lead genealogist and heads up the organisation’s outreach, liaison and education programmes. She was formerly a member of the Lord Chancellor’s Advisory Council on National Records and Archives. Else has more than 30 years’ experience as a researcher and teacher, during which time she has delivered talks around the world. She writes a regular column for Your Family Tree magazine, contributes to magazines and print media in the UK and Australia, and edits genealogical reference works and distance learning materials. She has co-authored a number of highly regarded family history publications, compiled the Next Steps articles for the family history section of the BBC website and appeared on Radio 4’s Making History and Women’s Hour as well as the popular Who Do You Think You Are? and Find My Past television shows.
Else was presented with the medal at this year's Awards Day in the grounds of Canterbury Cathedral by our President the Earl of Lytton.
