Wilson’s passing marks a great loss to the photonics community, to Scotland, the UK, and indeed the world at large.  He was a major figure during that exciting period during which we saw so many rapid research developments in lasers, optoelectronics and photonics.  Wilson’s impact – both directly and indirectly – was immense.  Not to mention his role in furthering public science policy.My personal connections date back to his time of working with Dan Bradley at Imperial College and these became closer after we both moved north to Scotland.  Wilson supported enthusiastically the value of research collaborations that brought together a range of expertise and experience to tackle major new areas.  I was particular grateful for his support of our (Heriot-Watt) Scottish Collaborative Initiative in Optoelectronic Sciences (SCIOS) – and, as ever his contributions were invaluable.  I also recall many happy memories of attending overseas conferences with Wilson and enjoying hugely those convivial occasions, relaxing together after the day’s formal sessions.  And one always came away having learned something new!  I was hoping to attend his Memorial Service on the 8th November but, unfortunately, am unable to.  My very sincere condolences to Barbara, his family and all his friends and colleagues.