Gresham Cooke

Roger Gresham Cooke (26 January 1907 – 22 February 1970), usually known as Gresham Cooke, was a British Conservative Party politician. He was the son of Arthur Cooke, senior surgeon to Addenbrooke's Hospital. A brother was Nicholas Gresham Cooke.

Early life
Cooke joined the British Road Federation as secretary in 1935, later becoming Chairman of its Highways Committee. After the war, in 1946, he was appointed director of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, a representational role which he held during a difficult period for the UK's economy and motor industry until 1955.

Political career
Cooke was Member of Parliament for Twickenham from 1955 until his death aged 63 in 1970. No by-election was held after his death, as the 1970 general election followed only four months later, in which Toby Jessel was elected as Cooke's successor.

Personal life
Cooke married Rosalie Anne, daughter of J.R.H. Pinckney in 1934. His grandson is the journalist and environmental activist George Monbiot.

Other activities
A few days before he died Cooke was lobbying for Britain's motor racing achievements to be commemorated through a special issue of postage stamps.