Jim and I first met in the late 1960’s and have remained friends over the years. It was clear he was destined for greatness as, following a spell as Staff Officer to the then Chief Constable Sir Peter Matthews, he was awarded a Bramshill Scholarship to study at City University. It was there that he, together with Ian Beckett and under the guidance of Sir Peter, became the architect of what became ‘Neighbourhood Policing’. On return to Surrey their concept became a reality with ‘Neighbourhood Policing’ rolled out across the Metropolitan Police and Surrey – and soon across much of England and Wales. While I followed his career from Surrey, to the Met, back to Surrey, it was when Jim was appointed Commissioner of the City of London Police that I had to smile – for if ever there was a man for that role, then it was he! Always the consummate gentleman, highly articulate and with an ability to move at ease in the greatest of company but mingled with an ability to reach out to all with whom he worked. Away from the ‘job’ Jim enjoyed the fine things in life – fine wines, good food, and fast (is somewhat strange) cars. But I always felt his passion was for his houses. He first designed and built a lovely homes, first in the Meon Valley and then, once into retirement, a beautiful house deep in the south-west of France. It was truly an honour to know and befriend a great man so sadly taken from us. To Julie, his children and wider family I send my condolences, prayers and love. Paul