I was so deeply saddened to read of the passing of Mr Perkins, I had to write immediately.

If there ever was a real life Mr Chips, then Mr Perkins was certainly that gentleman.

He threw such a passion into his rugby and his German and has inspired thousands.

His contribution to Bristol / Hanover relations is immeasurable and he even managed to combine his twin passions in its pursuit.  In August 1987, he insisted that the entire Lower Sixth A level German class (admittedly, only four of us) accompany the U15 rugby team on their Hanover tour.  It was a wonderful experience that I will never forget.

He cared so much for ALL the boys in the school that he made sure he knew the name of each and every one probably within their first term at QEH, even though he wasn’t actually teaching any of them by that stage.

Every year, I have looked forward to exchanging Christmas cards with him.  His simple formula reminded and endeared at the same time: to ‘Die Familie Culliford’, from ‘JDP’.  This year, there will be no card and so my house will feel a little sadder.  Something wonderful will have gone to another, better place.

God bless you, Mr Perkins.  You will be so very much missed.  You made such a wonderful difference in the lives of so many young people.