My first encounter with David was at a UOL Teaching Centres Gathering in Senate House. He was the Session Chair. I was co-presenting and thought the session went well. David was kind enough to provide feedback that he, too, thought it went well. Then, in an understated way, he set out areas for potential improvement. He delivered the message in such a way that ‘it all just made sense’. ThereafterI ensured that in meetings and presentations when David was speaking, I listened attentively to his invariably well thought through insights and ideas. His publications reflected his approach to detail. I had the opportunity to share some both serious and humourous moments with him. His spirit endures.