The National Oesophago-Gastric Cancer Audit (NOGCA) team was deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Tom Crosby OBE in September 2026. Tom was instrumental in establishing and shaping NOGCA as the clinical oncology lead, but his influence on the cancer community, particularly in oesophago-gastric cancer care, reached far beyond the audit.
Tom was a Consultant Clinical Oncologist at Velindre Cancer Centre and one of the UK’s leading specialists in oesophago-gastric cancer. He was an internationally respected researcher, helping to establish the UK and Ireland Oesophago-Gastric Group (UKIOG), and played a major role in improving cancer services in Wales, not least through his work as National Cancer Clinical Director.
We will remember Tom for his unrelenting enthusiasm, curiosity and energy. Tom applied his extensive clinical knowledge and passion for improving care to ensure the Audit would lead to meaningful change for patients. His insights and ideas helped ensure the Audit provided useful information for cancer services and patients about the pathway of care and identified areas where practice could improve. He was expert at translating audit findings into clinically meaningful messages.
Those who worked with Tom will remember his warmth, humour, generosity, and ability to bring people together. His leadership and commitment inspired countless others to improve cancer care, and his influence will continue to guide the Audit’s work.
We extend our deepest sympathies to Tom’s family, friends and colleagues. Diolch, Tom.
The National Oesophago-Gastric Cancer Audit team