I first met Gav at the age of 11 when we started at Swanwick Hall and we steadily became friends although our paths didn’t cross much at school. On joining Amber Valley Borough Council we were both working at Cornhill House in Alfreton and Gav, myself and the other trainees quickly formed a group that would wind one another up with practical jokes most days. We used to go out around Ripley 2-3 times a week and later on spend Saturday mornings recovering in the new Ripley Town Hall when we moved there as we did our college work. Ot was working here he met future wife, Fiona. Our friendship was always strong and I had the pleasure of knowing his lovely parents too. We had many chaotic and memorable nights around the town. I was proud to be best man when Gavin and Fiona married and he was mine when I married Lisa. It’s such a sad loss and I don’t exaggerate when I say I miss him and think of him every day.