Don and I attended the same school together in King's Road, Chelmsford during the war years, albeit there was two form year's difference due to our ages.

In those days of the war, we lived one day at a time, not knowing what the next day would bring; very often diving under our desks when an air raid warning was sounded during the middle of lessons.  At other times we lads would spend time collecting shrapnel and pieces of Perspex from crashed aircraft canopies  to swap back at school for marbles etc. I guess that's where Don began to hone his negotiating skills which were to see him through his later business life.  These were rough and tumble times and on a few occasions Don managed to get me out of trouble when in the playground; even then he was quite well built and knew how to handle himself.

On my marriage to Jackie, Don agreed to be my best man; he carried this out to perfection.  It was not until we left for our honeymoon when the steam train driver's palm was crossed with an incentive, the whistle was then sounded long after we cleared Chelmsford.      On our journey to Gatwick we opened of our cases; a large quantity of confetti was released which then blew down the full length of the carriage, much to our embarrassment and the amusement of fellow passengers.  I have to say Don never did admit to having had a hand in that escapade!

Jackie and I spent a number of happy family weekend occasions when he and Bobbie were living in Derby and subsequently Cheltenham.  As always, Don and Bobbie were wonderful hosts; nothing was too much trouble for them, ably assisted by their Daughters.

I remember dining with them both at the In and Out Club in Pall Mall.  We had a very pleasant evening, the wine was flowing and time passed quickly.  By the time I got back to my office in Broadgate to pick up my briefcase, the last train was leaving the station.  Needless to say we spent the night at my office before arriving home on the early morning milk train.  Again one more experience with Don that Jackie and I will never forget.

I shall miss him and the times which we shared together.  He was a true gentleman, always up for a laugh and ready to help others wherever he could.

Mike & Jackie Dryhurst 

R.I.P. Don you will never be forgotten.