Christopher Lawton Newton-Thompson, a talented cricket player and esteemed anti-apartheid activist, was born on an unspecified date in London, England. He passed away on January 29, 2002, in Cape Town, South Africa, at the age of 82. Despite being born in London, Newton-Thompson had deep roots in South Africa, with his father being a fifth-generation South African.
Newton-Thompson received his education in South Africa before attending Cambridge University in 1937. During his time at Cambridge, he showcased his exceptional cricketing skills and secured a game against the West Indians in the significant 1939 Seniors’ Match. In this match, Newton-Thompson left a lasting impression on spectators as he displayed a “brilliant display of all-round hitting.” While he only scored eight runs in each innings, he caught the renowned George Headley at the wicket for an impressive 103 runs. Unfortunately, this would be his sole appearance in first-class cricket.
Outstanding in both cricket and rugby, Newton-Thompson also captained the Cambridge rugby team. He even represented England in rugby at an international level during World War II. His brother, Ozzie Newton-Thompson, was equally athletically talented and became both a cricket and rugby Blue at Oxford University. Ozzie also had the honor of representing England in rugby.
While his sporting achievements were remarkable, Christopher Newton-Thompson’s bravery and determination extended far beyond the field. Serving as a tank commander in Italy, he earned the Military Cross (MC) for his valiant efforts during wartime. Following the conclusion of World War II, Newton-Thompson returned to South Africa in the late 1950s and actively participated in the fight against apartheid.
True to his lineage as the son of an English suffragette and a descendant of the political Chamberlain family, Newton-Thompson ardently stood against racial discrimination. He contributed significantly to the anti-apartheid movement and played a pivotal role in the establishment of Waterford, a non-racial school situated in Swaziland. Newton-Thompson co-founded Waterford, which was created after the government closed St Peter’s in Johannesburg, the alma mater of Oliver Tambo.
Waterford attracted notable students, including the children of prominent figures such as Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. The future famous actor Richard E. Grant also received his education at the prestigious institution.
Christopher Lawton Newton-Thompson, remembered not only for his cricketing prowess but also for his unwavering dedication to justice and equality, holds a hallowed place in the annals of both sports and activism. His legacy continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the immense power sports have in championing social change.
