Adrian and Jenny

We were devastated to have the news of Roger’s sudden death, as were all his many friends in Australia and New Zealand. I have known him longer than anyone else. We were constant companions during those early years in China, with few other playmates or distractions. We were taught at home by our parents who did a wonderful job. There were the school days at Kingswood where he was a couple of years ahead, and then we lived together on and off in London through the 1950s and early 60s. Among my earliest memories was Roger getting me to do things he was sure that I would enjoy and though I didn’t realise it at the time this was his way of showing the famous kindliness, or pleasure giving, that everyone talks about. As he grew up everyone noticed his deep interest in other people and their needs and the way he always tried hard to make sure that everyone of all ages and nationalities had a really good time in ways that were often original, brilliant and fun. These qualities were on constant display with his family, every member of which he loved dearly. And he kept into adulthood a touchingly innocent, even childlike, joy about celebrating special occasions such as birthdays, weddings and Christmas when greetings were exchanged, songs sung and best of all presents were opened ! Along with his interest in people Roger also had a great sense of wonder about the universe, the world, technology and nature. He loved to hear about new ideas even, or especially, if they were unfamiliar topics. And he was proud of demonstrating his unusual theory that time expands to cover tasks in hand. I defy anyone to have found any subject great or small that he wouldn’t seize upon and talk about with intense interest. In fact he had an insatiable need to know about everything, which is why he was the most approachable of men. Another thing about Roger was that you soon found out that he wasn’t afraid of anything. He wasn’t afraid of speaking his mind, having a go, of challenging authority and of testing his nerve. If you wanted anything done, or you needed an advocate, Roger would be a good choice because he never, or rarely, gave up. His going leaves a big gap in our lives. We miss him. Adrian and Jenny Aylott