I met Paul when my teenage sister Kathryn brought home her older teenage boyfriend. I was struck by this tall skinny long haired bloke in big boots and his long drizabone coat who was actually a gentle giant who I instantly liked.

Some of the most incredible moments of my life were shared with Kathryn and Paul – backstage passes at Pink Floyd’s Earls Court gig and arguably the single most amazing night of my life – a meteor shower where the entire sky was a mass of shooting stars.

He always held a special place in my heart like a big brother. He didn’t even get mad at me when he lent me a cassette and I accidentally recorded over it for a few seconds!

Paul – you were a shining star and my heart goes out to Tracie and to everyone close to you. Rest in peace Big Vern! ♥️