Police confirmed earlier this week that a body found in the River Thames is that of Dr Rex Walford, fellow of Wolfson College, who went missing after a tragic boating accident in early January.

Dr Walford, OBE, had contributed immeasurably to the University as well as to the study and teaching of Geography with messages of remembrance flooding in from a wealth of colleagues and ex-students.

Dr Walford enjoyed a fulfilling life, serving terms as head of the University’s Department of Education, president of the Geographical Association, vice-president of the Royal Geographical Society as well as lecturing in Geography and Education from 1973 until 1999.

Yet his academic credentials do not do justice to his enthusiasm in all walks of life. Treasured amongst friends and colleagues as a lover of theatre, Dr Walford was chairman of Cambridge Drama Festival until his death.

Tricia Peroni, Acting Secretary of the group, wished to share with Varsity: "Rex inspired many people in the world of amateur theatre. He was a man who loved life; he was intelligent and encouraging, full of energy and enthusiasm, and all who he came into contact with him were captivated by his warmth and charm."

"He gave himself wholeheartedly to every one of his ‘projects’ and he was a vibrant part of theatre in Cambridge. It was a privilege to work with Rex and we are richer for having known him."

Famed for squeezing rehearsals into his tight teaching schedule, Dr Walford particularly contributed to the transformation of secondary school geography teaching. For a quarter of a century he ran the post-graduate teacher-education course for the subject and can be credited with filling schools nationwide with a stream of enthusiastic educators.

The University’s posthumous tribute to Dr Walford also thanked him for inspiring his students to give the institution "a regular supply of wicket-keepers, opening batsmen and Footlights performers."

A spokesman for Wolfson College has said how ‘admired and respected’ Rex was by his colleagues. "Having been a Fellow, then Emeritus Fellow, since 1988, he was well-known in the College - and not only for his academic achievements but also for his love of musical theatre, which he shared in performances in Wolfson from time to time. Our thoughts are with his widow, Wendy."

Dr Walford’s innovative teaching approach based on active participation went beyond the seminar room as he dedicated 22 years to the Meridian School in Royston whose headteacher, Dr Mike Firth, will remember him as "extremely well-liked and dedicated to the school."

Dr Walford was due to continue to offer day-school and residential courses at the Madingley School for the Institute of Continuing Education.

A former student, Peter Freeman, fondly remembers an occasion when the don gave up his coffee break to help him to surprise his sister. "One does not forget such kindness. He will prove irreplaceable."

A dedicated Christian, Dr Rex Walford also made good use of his retirement to study for a theological doctorate. It is this ability to live life to the full that will allow Dr Rex Walford to live on and inspire those who knew him.

Ely Cathedral will host a service of thanksgiving for the life of Dr Walford at 3pm on Wednesday 16 February.