Academic, writer, sculptor, poet and priest, born in Port Talbot, Glamorgan, full name William Moelwyn Merchant. He graduated in English and history at University College in Cardiff and began teaching at Carmarthen Grammar School in 1935. Held a series of academic posts, including professor of English at University of Exeter, 1961–74. Was ordained to Anglican Orders, 1940. Wrote a number of books, including Wordsworth’s Guide to the Lakes, illustrated by John Piper, 1952; Breaking the Code, poems, 1975; a novel, Fire from the Heights, 1989; and Fragments of a Life, his autobiography, 1990. His career as a sculptor began in 1964, influenced by Barbara Hepworth. Merchant’s sculptures were often erect, their subjects ranging from the human to natural forms and symbolic images.