I believe I first met Bernie in my third year of my undergrad, proudly presenting a SMRU tag to the class. Little did I know then that I would once move into an office next to his when I started my PhD in 2013. 

Bernie’s door was always open, for discussing research on ellies and currents, or just for a cuppa. Bernie brought warmth and joy to my time at SMRU; ‘looked after me’ at my first Bio-logging conference in Strasbourg; and was always there with support when needed.

For me, Bernie was the friendly Scottish face at the heart of SMRU. It will feel weird not finding him there anymore when I go back to visit next. It is hard to imagine SMRU without him; and I think, a part of him will always stay there. Bernie will be sadly missed, and remembered well by many (including a good few seals)!