Having played with Paul for the majority of the last 20 years, Paul had, without doubt, the sharpest wit I’ve ever come across, with had an unmatched talent of never making anyone feel bad about themselves.

He was sharp, funny and cutting, but never unkind. Never cruel. It was always from a warm, loving place and would have everyone in the room, including yourself, all laughing. He was the personification of a safe space.

My over arching memory of Paul was in Argentina in 2007 where he showed his kindness. It’s not a big thing, but it was for me.

My Spanish (much like my English) was awful. It was my first time out the country, I hadn’t eaten all day, and had managed to order the wrong food. Out come a great heap of what I can only describe as green gunk.

I was still a teenager, and was usually the one going for other people myself, but the tables were turned, and I got absolutely heckled from all corners.

I was tired, exhausted, hungry and emotionally had 0 left in the tank. I was struggling to cope, even over something so trivial, but the torrent was relentless.

I vividly remember Paul noticing how upset I was and gently steering the conversation  away and giving me a look to say it’s ok.

This happened a few times and his voice, so calm and understanding, just stopped it all, and I was able to sneak out and compose myself.

Out of all our years, the simplest thing, over the most trivial thing, but I’ll never forget it to this day and that act of kindness went along way.

RIP Paul, thank you for the years. The legacy you have created at the club you love will live on forever in your memory ❤️