Harry French was born on the 14 February 1910 in Brighton. Dr Harry French, an engineer/physicist, was involved before and throughout the second world war in teaching and research in the field of anti-aircraft radar engineering.

When the College was designated a College of Advanced Technology in 1957, he became a member of its Governing Body, as the Ministry’s ‘assessor’ – a kind of watchdog – cum-advisor. As such, he rendered considerable service to the College, particularly in persuading the ministry to agree to the acquisition of large areas of land, later used for the development of the University. In 1966, the College became a University, and Dr French, by this time Chief Inspector for Further Education, was awarded an Honourary D.Sc. at the University's first congregation. In 1971 he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. After his retirement, as H.M. Senior Chief Inspector, he was invited to join the University Council, and did so in 1976. He was appointed Pro- Chancellor and Vice-Chairman of Council in 1978; and Senior Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council in 1981, a post he occupied until 1986.

Harry opened the Hall officially on the 10 January 1992.

The hall is conveniently situated with respect to University and town lying in one of the older residential areas of Loughborough.

The first few weeks away from your normal surroundings, family and friends can be very stressful. You will need to be aware of this and be prepared for it. Keep yourself busy, particularly with your academic studies. Be prepared for much hard work for you will find it strenuous enough having to cope with academic life without also having the worry of shopping for and preparing food.

Harry French Hall is a collection of old and new buildings and can accommodate 389 students of them just over 75% are freshers. You will be provided with a fitted kitchen, including kitchen units, table, chairs, Fridge/Freezer, oven/hob, microwave and kettle. You will need to provide your own cooking utensils, crockery, cups and glasses and cutlery. Facilities for cooking light snacks such as toasters, kettles, and microwaves are not allowed in bedrooms so don't bother to bring them with you. You are expected to provide your own towels, toiletries and bedlinen.

I would strongly advise you to familiarise yourself with the preparation of simple meals as the consistent use of ready-prepared foods can be expensive. You might find it useful to bring some provisions with you to cover you for the first two or three days until you find your way around the local shopping centre. Acquaint yourself with information on the proper storage of foods especially perishables such as meat, vegetables and bread; (each kitchen is provided with a fridge and a freezer). I would strongly advise you to leave expensive bicycles at home though those of you who wish to bring them should have them coded and adequately insured. There are some secure bike sheds but this provision is not enough to cater for the demand. Keys for the bike sheds are available on payment of a deposit.

As a first year student you will arrive on Thursday, three days before returning University students, to give you time to settle in before the start of term and to get your bearings. Registration will take place on Friday and Saturday. You will also be expected to register with your department early on Friday morning.

The Hall Committee, the Sub-Wardens and I will be around to welcome you and direct you to your room. If there are important reasons why you can’t make it on this day let me know so that another time can be arranged. Home students arriving more than a day late (without notification) are likely to lose their places.

I look forward to meeting you and hope that your stay at Harry French will be happy and successful.

Dr Binoy Sobnack

Address

Any post will be delivered to reception in the Main Grove building. However parcels to big to fit in your Post Box (i.e. letter box) will not be signed for by reception. So always leave your phone number (or a friends) with any courier.

The address is:

Contact Persons

Name (Click to e-mail)	Position	Keycom	Telephone
Dr Binoy Sobnack	Warden	6510	01509 265545
Mr Amer Sheikh	Sub-Warden	6107	01509 240519
Ms Senay Mihcin	Sub-Warden	6508	01509 269906
Lawrence Mckay	Sub-Warden	6509	01509 260407
T Copley-Doidge	Unite Hall Manager		01509 238093
Student Accommodation Services		2478	01509 222258

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