He was in every sense a gentleman and a gentle man. Kind and unassuming with a wicked, slightly off-the-wall, sense of humour and a lovely smile. A surrogate 'uncle' to my girls when they were small and had very little by way of an extended family: we were made to feel very much a part of theirs. We met through church in Whitley Bay more than forty years ago, and though distance and busy lives subsequently separated us for long stretches at a time, we never lost touch and have so many fond memories. More recently Geoff and Jill went out of their way to stop over in Askrigg to see us on their way to and from their beloved Northumberland. It was such a privilege to have known him. God bless you, dear Geoff, and rest in peace.