R.I.P. Patrick

I was saddened to receive an e-mail from his daughter informing me  he passed away earlier today. The family have been friends for over 12 years since we first hosted them on a village Twinning visit, from Brittany and the friendship strengthened over time to this day. Coincidentally earlier this year I was invited to their home  this coming weekend and only a week ago his admission into hospital curtailed the event. I had no idea he was ill, recent e-mails from him gave no indication of this. A great character, he will be sadly missed.