Events

Vic Ambler - Memorial and celebration of life event

In November 2025 we were saddened to share the news of the passing of Victor (Vic) Ambler at St James’s Hospital, Leeds. Vic was a long-serving and highly respected colleague at St Luke’s and our University, dedicated to his career from 1967 until his retirement.


Event details

His contributions to sport and education have left a lasting legacy on our St Luke’s Campus and beyond, including the Vic Ambler Golf Centre, named in his honour. Vic was also an exceptional basketball coach, guiding players to county, national, and international level - a remarkable achievement that has inspired generations.

Alumni and former colleagues have spoken of enjoying Vic’s wonderful stories in his later years. His warmth, humour, and dedication will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

  • Midday to 13:00 - St Lukes Chapel, St Lukes campus, Exeter – service in the memory of Vic Ambler.
  • 13:00 to 15:00 - Mount Radford pub https://www.greeneking.co.uk/pubs/devon/mount-radford – celebration of Vic’s life, where guests can purchase their own food and drinks.

Vic had a significant impact on a large number of alumni when they were students, so we welcome you to join us at this memorial service, followed by a celebration of life. We have already heard that alumni are looking to attend from America for this special event! To attend this memorial event, please register here.

Many of those alumni have requested a way to celebrate his life with a lasting impact back to the students – so we have established the Vic Ambler Sports Scholarship Fund, which will enable support to our students who take part in regional, national and international level sports, including bursaries to them to cover such costs as travel and accommodation, coaching etc. Please donate here - University of Exeter crowdfunding with University of Exeter.