Noted philanthropist and Kindertransport refugee Sir Erich Reich passes away at 87

Sir Erich was proud to be the smallest boy depicted in the famous Kindertransport statue by Frank Meisler at Liverpool Street Station.

Kindertransport statue

The Kindertransport statue by Frank Meisler at Liverpool Street Station, featuring Sir Erich Reich (Credit: Frank Meisler)

He was knighted in 2010 for his charitable work, which has enabled thousands of people to raise millions of pounds through sponsored challenges such as bike rides and treks.

Michael Newman, chief executive of the AJR, said “We are all deeply shocked and hugely saddened by this terrible news. Erich was a great personal friend and mentor to me, and a popular presence at any AJR gathering. We will all miss him terribly. We send our sincere condolences to his family and will greatly treasure the happy memories we have of him.”

Muswell Hill Synagogue, of which Sir Erich was a member, has wished his wife Lady Linda Reich, his children, and all his family “strength and long life at this difficult time.”