I worked with David on the Asia Desk at OXFAM during his time there and found him to be unassuming, kind, with an impressive intellect and unusually wide-ranging attitude to the global political situation and where developmental help should best be focused. He also had a delightful appreciation of the wilder eccentricities of other fellow staff members. Michael Harris, then head of the Overseas Division of OXFAM, told me before he arrived that I would be privileged to be working with him "First Class Man", in Michael's words. He told me he learned to walk with the Light Brigade - 60 paces to the minute, presumably during his National Service. It has been a privilege to stay in touch with David and Pat since his retirement and to appreciate their huge enjoyment and love for their growing family. Almost without realising it, David morphed into a mentor and I shall miss him.