David Pyke (who died in January 2001) was the registrar of the Royal College of Physicians from 1975 to 1992. During that time he wrote a regular column, 'Notes from the Registrar,' for the quarterly Commentary in which he pronounced on diverse topics - from medical matters and personalities to use of the English language - and , of course, RCP life.

He wrote with wit, humour and perception, all of which made his column the first thing most Members and Fellows turned to when they received their Commentary.

The RCP has published an anthology of 'Pyke's notes'. Not only will they entertain, but they will provide an insider's view of many of the issues that changed medicine between 1975 and 1992.