John was a good friend. Always positive, but realistic about life's challenges. I can honestly say I never heard him say a bad thing about anyone behind their back. He was full of integrity. Our conversations would range widely across cricket, politics, music, literature, poetry. Invariably his gentle, dry humour would emerge. I was very respectful of the work he previously did in the children's unit at Great Ormond Street hospital and more recently at the RD&E, also at the secure unit in Dawlish - a challenging environment. If he ever spoke about these activities it was never to draw attention to himself, it was clear he was motivated by compassion for the people concerned. And I see an MBE (kept that one quiet!). Malcolm