I first met Stephen in 2014, having recently joined the CAA. Even then, he already had more than 20 years’ service behind him. His experience and insight was always appreciated, alongside a dry wit and often pithy manner of expression. Not afraid of robust conversations, he had a welcome ability to cut to the heart of the matter in hand.

The range of topics on which Stephen provided advice to the General Aviation Unit and other colleagues in Safety and Airspace cannot be quantified, but most notably I will remember working with him on the Air Navigation Order 2016 – his skill and dedication ensured the Order was laid before Parliament on time, despite significant challenges along the way.

The CAA are blessed to have such great counsel, whether it be advising on our statutory duties, pursuing enforcement action, or the drafting of legislation. Stephen was one of the best. He will be greatly missed, but he leaves behind a significant contribution to the field of aviation legislation, with many of his words living on in statute.

Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.