I worked with closely with John from Day 1 at RSSB, primarily supporting the communication and marketing of the RISAS scheme, but occasionally on other rolling stock-related projects. John felt very much like a mentor to me, teaching me a great deal about the engineering and safety challenges on the railway. Despite his expertise being called upon by so many, he always found time to answer my questions, be they my own or from journalists with varying degrees of knowledge. His presence, authority, credibility and professional judgement were palpable, undeniable, uncontainable, but likewise his humility, humanity and sincerity were just as genuine and obvious. Rest in peace John.