I was so sad to hear of this really terrible news, my thoughts are with you Tizzy, Melody and Glenn who I share some fond memories growing up.

A trip to your house was always exciting as we had to go through the old Dartford tunnel (when there used to be just one) and particularly one special trip that included a guided tour around a TriStar plane when Barry was with British Caledonian.  Both these facts make me feel old...

I owe Barry a huge debt of thanks for allowing me to 'lodge' with him during 1997 in Hong Kong. Hong Kong had been planned as the start of a World trip however after 3 months (very enjoyable 3 months) I came back to the UK and got married.  It became essentially a very long stag do.  

I shared the most outstanding and large 4 bedroom apartment in Kowloon overlooking the cricket club during a most fascinating time in history when the UK gave Hong Kong back to the Chinese.  To add to my luxurious back packing accommodation he had a maid to clean, wash and sometimes cook, I think I landed on my feet.  

Barry introduced me to work friends, dragon boat racing, restaurants and in turn I introduced him to a collection of dancing girls (one of whom I had come to visit).  I was even given access to Barry's country club where I spent a lot of time swimming and having lunch.  A particular memory of Barry was when we were walking the streets of Hong Kong and how he treated the locals who would harass us trying to sell stuff or get us in their shops, the cries of 'Bugger Off' would sing from his lips and so he had become affectionally known as 'Bugger off Barry'.

I think for a good chunk of time, whilst I was there, Barry had returned to the UK leaving me alone with this amazing apartment, maid and troupe of dancing girls.  The memories I still have from that time in Hong Kong I will never forget and they often still come to mind with the stories of good times.  

Thank you Barry, for your generosity, trust and being pals with my dad so I could take advantage of your kindness during this unforgettable time of my life.

It's sad that we are in such rubbish times at the moment as I would have certainly wanted to have attended next week.

My love goes out to you all and my memories of 'Bugger off Barry' will always remain.

Matt x