I worked with Alan for a number of years at the University of Sussex. We were in the same bulding, working as senior administrators, but not in the same office. It always brightened our day when he came down the corridor to visit, regaling us with often-hilarious tales from both his professional and non-work life. Alan was so looking forward to his early retirement, and it’s a tremendous pity that he wasn’t able to enjoy those carefree days and the travel adventures that he’d planned. It was an absolute pleasure to know Alan, and when I recall him, he’s always laughing.