A memory of Nige Nige was a very important person in my life and I tried my best to stand by him through his trials just as he undoubtedly did for me. We first met through sport in Oxford in early ’72, I think, and soon became firm friends – and he was seriously competitive on the squash and tennis courts and on the golf course too – and we loved to battle! His immensely strong forearms allowed him to belt small balls remarkably hard – and then, of course, to hold the odd glass of ale afterwards! I was introduced to the joys of Lodge Farmhouse and he invited me to pair with him against his equally-talented brothers… we lost far too often but never because of him! He was always a gracious partner though – and Abbot Ale quickly made up for any loss… But his friendship was more than this for me because he was one of my first ‘new friends’ after my accident – and I treasure his willingness to be with me and my face – and to care for me too. His spirituality was very influential too… in his reading and most of all, in his music. He introduced me to so much music that will be forever associated with Nige – the Incredible String Band, especially… He had some very tough battles in the years that followed but he was always a caring friend and came to my aid by milking my cows so that I could visit my dying father… It was great to see him emerge into Suffolk apple orchards, onto the cricket pitch and golf course again and into his joyful marriage with Fiona… Nige was a good, gentle and generous soul who loved his friends and family, his sport and music and the great outdoors, sunsets especially. RIP Nige... from James