Cecil Raymond Humphery-Smith was born in 1928 and was educated at Hurstpierpoint College, Sussex. On sound advice, he completed postgraduate studies in Biochemistry in London and at the Parma-Piacenza Department of Agronomy. He became consultant to DeRica Spa. His interest in heraldry and genealogy led to an invitation to join the College of Arms.

His godfather, the late Ven KJF (Julian) Bickersteth, persuaded Cecil to establish a school for the study of history and structure of the family. In 1961 Cecil purchased premises in Northgate, Canterbury, and founded The Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies of which he is Principal. He has also edited its journal ‘Family History’ since 1962. The author of many articles and several essential research books, he has lectured widely at home and abroad and contributed to encyclopaedias, DNB, as well as many broadcasts on both television and radio.

A leading member of national and international societies he served as President of La Confederation International de Science Geneaolgiue et Heraldique from 1986 to 1990. He has also won numerous awards, and in 2004, he was awarded an OBE by HM The Queen for service to education in genealogy and heraldry. He has been happily married to Alice since 1951 and they have five daughters, one son, 15 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Honours and awards

• 1989 Fellow of the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada
• 2004 Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire