Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was born in Edinburgh and trained as a doctor. A prolific writer, Doyle was also very curious about many different things, including spiritualism and freemasonry. Plus, he was a passionate advocate of justice, and personally investigated at least two cases where he helped to overturn miscarriages of justice. He was also a keen sportsman, playing in goal for Portsmouth FC (the precursor tothe current club) and cricket for the MCC. A prolific writer, he produced historical novels and collections of short stories, but it was Sherlock Holmes, whom he modelled on his former university teacher, who brought him global fame.