I worked with Howard on the redevelopment of the Citizens Advice Runcorn premises. He was the Chair of the working group set up to develop the new premises, and I was facilitating the group, so we worked closely together over a couple of years.

It was the first time I had worked on a building project - and despite his great experience at building projects, he was always really supportive and patient with me.

The only thing he always picked up on were typos in my emails and reports - spelling mistakes really bugged him! I did manage to pick up on some typos that he had done on occasion - and we had a good laugh about that - he had such a good sense of humour, and didn't take himself too seriously.

Howard was a genuinely lovely man, and a pleasure to have known. I always looked forward to seeing his beard growing ready for Christmas - I bet he made a great Father Christmas!

So sad to hear of his passing - but I know I'll remember him fondly always.