It is with great sadness that we report the death of Fergus (Gus) Priest, Professor Emeritus at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, where he was previously Head of Life Sciences. Fergus was closely involved with FEMS and was Editor-in-Chief of FEMS Microbiology Letters (1997-2002) and FEMS Publications Manager (2005-2011).

His research focused on the taxonomy and physiology of bacteria in beverage fermentations and he was awarded the Bergey Medal by the Bergey Manual Trust in 2008 in recognition of his achievements in bacterial taxonomy.

He is fondly remembered by all of us that knew him, as a friendly face who always had a smile on his face. We are very grateful for his work and significant contributions to FEMS and our thoughts are with his family.