I first met Roger on Scout work weekends on Brownsea Island in about 1970. We were all part of the Brownsea Island Scout Service Team, assisting the Scout and Guide warden with any work needed on the campsite.  
Roger had been a Deep Sea Scout (established for Scouts afloat), and was also a leader with Barton Sea Scouts.  He was often at these weekends, appearing in a little inflatable boat with an outboard motor, and sometimes in larger sailing boats.
Occasionally we would all pile into his boat, and sail round the island at night having a thoroughly enjoyable time!


In March 1976 a barge week was arranged on the Grand Union canal, with 10 Brownsea service team on board, of which Roger was one.  Roger brought his friend Janet, and her son Robin.  We all had a great time, enjoyed the very hot weather that year, and visited many of the pubs on the way!


In the Septembers of 1977, 1978, 1979 and 1980 Roger expertly arranged very enjoyable sailing holidays across the channel, to Cherbourg, Channel Islands, St Malo and Guernsey, and Granville.  We had many adventures and fun times, and unfailingly led by Roger, we always arrived back in Hamble Marina at the appointed time.


I remember Roger turning up at the funeral of one of the Brownsea members, complete with waffle machine!  Needless to say, we didn’t go hungry afterwards!


Roger and I occasionally met in London for various events, including some Lord Mayor’s Shows, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the Olympics and occasional meals and shows.  Roger always had great ideas of interesting extras, especially eating!


Stuart and I were invited to stay at Pilgrims, in Tilmanstone, near Deal, Kent for a few days while he was house sitting last November. We were so pleased that we were able to go, and spend some time with him in a lovely home we had heard so much about.  He was an excellent host, and very interesting and knowledgeable. 


The last time I met Roger was in Romsey, with our friend Esther.  We both had a great day with him, despite the pouring rain.  Unfortunately we didn’t make our next catch up due to the current virus restrictions.


Roger’s family, friends and volunteering were very important to him throughout his life. In the words of a scouting friend, he was unique.


I shall always remember Roger with much fondness.  He was a good friend.  He was a patient, kind, generous, and very knowledgable person, with never a cross word, and always seeing the best in people.


He will be very much missed by Stuart and myself.