So shocked and saddened to hear of Mark’s death. He was a much-loved colleague and friend from the moment he arrived in Manchester. Prior to that I was well aware of his pioneering work, had seen him in action at Phys Soc meetings, and he was easily our first choice when a group of us sat down to think of ways to refresh physiology as a discipline in Manchester. Subsequently, as head of our research group he created a really warm and friendly atmosphere, made everyone feel welcome and valued, and managed two immensely complex moves of our offices and labs between buildings. He oversaw some important new appointments, led by example in his research work, and stood up for us as a group at faculty level. I enjoyed many hours of agreeing project and dissertation marks with him, where we almost always had trouble meeting deadlines and there was a standing joke with the teaching office about whether the marking was dunne yet. On a personal note, Mark was immensely kind when I was off work and having to lie flat on my face after eye surgery – even to the extent of sending me two Harry Potter audiobooks to help pass the time. Although I retired three years ago, I can imagine huge the sense of loss that must be felt now in that part of the Michael Smith Building. He will be fondly remembered by so many of us in Manchester and around the world, and I hope that will be some small comfort to Karen and the girls.