Howard and I were at school together in Birmingham. We became best friends and even did the same A levels (History, English and Geography) although Howard also took Art on top of those. The Geography course was pretty turgid but we enjoyed 2 field trips together, one to the Inverness area, the other to Swanage on the Isle of Purbeck. Naturally, we teamed up on special projects during those trips. This involved getting out and about independently ie finding our way around without help from staff. So, we had to make our way by foot (or, if lucky, by hitching a lift) to visit farms in the Inverness area, gleaning information about agriculture in that area. I recall Howard reaching into his pocket as we wandered down a lane, fetching out some Wills Gold Flake cigarettes. Neither of us really smoked but there was something joyous about having a puff out in the wilderness of northern Scotland. When we went to Swanage, we had the same kind of project where we made our own way to the magnificent Maiden Castle to prepare for a presentation to the whole party later that week. As ever, Howard was lovely company. I always felt at ease with him - he was the definition of a good friend. I’ll miss his wisdom, his understanding, his sense of humour, his integrity. Rest in peace Howard.