Kenneth Cork facts for kids

Sir Kenneth Russell Cork was a very important British accountant and expert in insolvency (which is about helping businesses that are in financial trouble). He was also the Lord Mayor of London from 1978 to 1979. He is most famous for leading a big review of the laws about businesses in trouble in the UK. This review's report, known as the Cork Report (from 1982), led to a new law called the Insolvency Act 1986.

Who Was Sir Kenneth Russell Cork?

Sir Kenneth Russell Cork was born on August 21, 1913, and passed away on October 13, 1991. He was a partner in a well-known company called Cork Gully. This company helped businesses that were having money problems. His father, W.H. Cork, and Harry Gully started the company in 1935. In 1980, Cork Gully joined another big company called Coopers & Lybrand. Sir Kenneth was known as a top expert in his field. He had a very important role in helping struggling businesses, which made him stand out from other accountants.

Sir Kenneth's Public Service Roles

Before becoming the Lord Mayor of London, Sir Kenneth served as a sheriff of London from 1975 to 1976. The Lord Mayor and Sheriffs are important leaders in the City of London, which is the historic heart of London.

Sir Kenneth also helped with the arts. He was the Vice Chairman of the Arts Council, which supports art and culture in the UK. He was also the Chairman of the Royal Shakespeare Company, a famous theatre group. He guided other groups too, like the Philharmonia Orchestra and the London Festival Ballet.

Family Connections

Sir Kenneth's son, Sir Roger Cork, followed in his father's footsteps. Roger was born on March 31, 1947, and died on October 21, 2002. He also became a partner at Cork Gully. Just like his father, Sir Roger Cork also served as the Lord Mayor of London from 1996 to 1997.