BRYAN
 
I have known Bryan for nearly sixty years. We arrived on the same day to teach at Christ Church College, Canterbury (C4), eyeing each other across the room where a reception was held for new members of staff. There was an instant rapport although we had yet to  discover what we might have in common.  I met Wendy within a few days and gradually, as they emerged, the rest of the Pods.
Bryan was hugely energetic, physically and mentally. On the tennis court his flying windmill service always had the better of me but, despite his reach, I had him struggling in the squash court. We seemed to talk literature all the time and he was constantly asking questions about my occupation with philosophy and the philosophy of religion. I was appointed as a resident tutor and when we found we had free time we’d go to my flat for a drink where our discussions frequently made us late returning to our teaching.
It was especially satisfying that he acted in some of the plays I produced, notably as Serebryakov in Chekhov’s “Uncle Vanya.” Wendy played as his wife, Helena Andreyevna – a natural pairing of roles!
Among my precious memories were the many hikes and picnics we shared with groups of our students. Organising night time beach parties was one of his favourite initiatives even in winter when we’d huddle around the fire while the sausages sizzled.
Bryan remained at C4 until he retired but I moved on first to Edinburgh then to North Yorkshire. He, Wendy and the family stayed with us at both locations.
I saw Bryan last in Bishop’s Castle visiting him with Nadège. We stayed in a B and B nearby and were able to wander around with him and share meals. I believe Bryan was never comfortable with electronic communication other than the telephone and after  that visit we spoke on the telephone almost weekly.
Bryan and Wendy were unconditionally hospitable and hours spent in their various homes were always joyful and nourishing. Bryan  had and inexhaustible capacity for friendship, for being a friend. His concern and care for people in need was simply a natural flow of his character. He was totally loyal, always giving, always there to put an arm around a shoulder.
Over recent years we were not able to meet and eventually we were unable to talk together. In that sense, my parting from Bryan has been gradual. However my abiding feeling is that my sadness is mitigated by a deep sense of gratitude that Bryan has been a part of my life for so many years. Thank you old Chum.