Published on: 5 August 2025
The William Harvey Library at George Eliot Hospital has received a very generous donation George Eliot books and
Geoffery was very proud of his association with George Eliot Hospital as under his tenure he had presided over the extension and transition of this local hospital into a District Hospital which is now an NHS Trust.
Beverlie donated, on her father’s bequest, books by George Eliot which her father had collected and memorabilia relating to the visit of Elizabeth II in 1994. Beverlie said: “He had been a collector of George Eliot publications as a memorial of his time at this health authority. “
“He always wished to donate his collection to the hospital, and although I wanted him to do it while he was alive, time unfortunately was not on our side, the family are delighted to be able to carry out his wishes.”
Stephen Ayre, Knowledge and Library Services Lead, said: “We are delighted to be entrusted with these historic 
Jenni Northcote, Chief Strategy, Improvement and Partnerships Officer, who welcomed Beverlie to the Trust, said:
“George Eliot Hospital is extremely honoured to receive these treasured books.These beautifully bound and illustrated books are a piece of history integrally connected to our hospital - linked directly to the naming of specific wards.”
"The books bring to life the hospital's connection to George Eliot and enable us to ensure that this connection to such a remarkable woman lives on. A photo album donated with the books provides a window into the hospital's initial development, its legacy as a local hospital serving the needs of the local community. "