Howard appointed me to Shopping City Library back in 1986, as Reference Librarian. His ability to lead, build consensus and carry people with him, all with his customary empathy, patience and kindness, taught me so much about creating opportunities for the left behind and working to make a difference. I am proud to have known him as a colleague, a boss and a friend.
Anne Pickton
10th April 2023
So, farewell then, Howard. A remarkable man: a humanitarian, imbued with a gentle humour, compassion, understanding and kindness as well as a sense of social justice the like of which is a rarity in this, or any other age. I'm proud to say I knew you and honoured to have called you a friend. RIP.
Paul Johnson
9th April 2023
I was Howard and I were both Heads of Service in Cheshire County Council's Information & Leisure Services Department in the 1990s. Howard was head of the Library & Information Service; I was head of the County Heritage & Recreation Service. Patric k Gee was our well-like and respected Director. I like Howard very much and appreciated his professionalism and wry sense of humour. He was one of the Good Guys! RIP, Howard.
Julian Pellatt
8th April 2023