Vice Admiral Sir Timothy James Hamilton Laurence was born 1 March 1955 the son of Commander Guy Stewart Laurence, who was also a salesman for a marine engine manufacturer, and Barbara Alison Laurence. During his childhood years, he attended several prep schools and was involved in numerous activities. He began attended The New Beacon Preparatory School , before moving on to Sevenoaks School, Kent and attending University College, University of Durham on a naval scholarship, receiving a Bachelors of Science in geography with 2nd upper class honors { Source }. During his university years, he was part of the student newspaper and captain of the cricket team. In the 1970s, he began serving as a member of the British Navy, working his way up the ranks. He attended the Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth for his initial training. After completing his training, he maintianed a post on the HMS Aurora. In 1973, he was promoted from midshipman. Two years later, he was promoted again, to