I am in severe shock as this morning I received a message from Thomas Heatherwick, the internationally famous designer, to inform me that Hugh passed away this morning at 03:58. He was my closest friend for 67 years and it leaves a chasm of emptiness and loss at his passing. Recently he became unable to speak due to a brain condition and had been diagnosed with lymphoma but had refused chemo.

We were boys in the flute class of Peter Wastall in 1959 and later played together in the Staff Band including the famous USA Tour in 1965. We kept in touch and remained close in civilian life. After the passing of his partner Britt a few years ago I had Hugh over to my Folkestone flat for lunch many times. On one occasion he fell asleep on the return journey to Deal and ended up in Ramsgate!! Drink had been taken….

I am reminded of the poignant words of Ralph Waldo Emerson:

“ The only way to have a friend is to be one. A friend may well be reckoned the masterpiece of nature.”

Rest In Peace old friend.

Adrian Brett