Nigel was special.

David Charles and I knew that when he came for interview in 1987.  He  proved it a few months later, when before he had even started, he easily accepted that, rather than being part of a 3 partner practice in small premises, he was to become part of a 7 partner practice which was undertaking the creation of large new premises at Gable House!

He was a special doctor, a special colleague, and a special friend.

We know lots of patients will describe what a special doctor he was.

He was a special colleague too. He showed an unusual combination of skills. As well as being an excellent doctor, he also undertook very complex administrative tasks with great flair and enthusiasm. He always accepted extra duties cheerfully – the only times he cancelled a surgery were when he donned shorts and wellies to attend to the not  infrequent floods at home in beloved Gooseybridge Cottage. But on top of all that he was great fun to be with – coffee time, albeit brief, was full of conversation about music, of all sorts, sport (mainly cricket and rugby) family and he could always find humour in the most unlikely places.

He became a very special friend after we were both retired. We enjoyed theatre, concerts, and meals together but there is one incident which will always stick in my mind as epitomising his kindness. I had taken him to Oxford for a radiotherapy appointment. I was interested to see the Radiotherapy suite, so along long hospital corridors we went. After he had checked in, and I turned to go back, he suddenly remembered my appalling sense of direction, and said ‘Shall I take you back to the waiting room?’ ! I declined but did think ‘What a special man you are Nigel!’

                                                                                                                                                Dr Kate Badcock.