This two-part special issue, Brachiopod Research into the Third Millennium, is published in honour of Sir Alwyn Williams (8 June 1921–4 April 2004). One section deals with fossil brachiopods while the other concentrates on aspects of modern material. The special issue comprises 23 invited papers, all dealing with current brachiopod research. In producing this special issue we honour the immense contribution made by the late Alwyn Williams to this field of research.