It was my good fortune to meet Tony at Basingstoke Writers Circle. From a shared interest grew appreciation; from appreciation grew collaboration; from collaboration grew a friendship which expanded, embracing our wives, Christine and Maria. We enjoyed spending time together, sharing tales of travels and family as we gradually realised we had so much in common.

Tony possessed an enviable  facility with verse, producing a vast output of poetry. He was also generous with his time, readily assisting other writers. Nowhere was this manifested more prominently than in his masterful secretaryship of the Basingstoke Music and Arts Festival, creative writing section. With great flair and terrific organisation he developed the annual award ceremony into a vibrant, engaging event. When Covid struck he turned the challenge into an opportunity and together we were able to bring the ceremony onto Basingstoke Community Radio, much to the pleasure of numerous participants, particularly children.

Above all Tony was a man of total integrity, thoroughly likeable, with fine values. I am deeply saddened to lose such a wonderful, creative friend.