Richard had many roles at St Mary's, some more formal than others. He was our long-standing PCC Treasurer, the Electoral Roll Officer, a committee member of the Friends of St Mary's, and also our representative on Deanery and Diocesan Synod. Much of that work, however, was done behind the scenes.

Instead, most people knew Richard as the friendly, welcoming face at the church door on a Sunday morning, handing out programme sheets at our music recitals, managing the Big Issue distribution office at the church several days a week, and running Kemp Town Talks, the free English conversation classes he set up at St Mary's on Friday and Saturday mornings. He gave very generously to the church, financially as well as in his commitment of time and energy.

We have chosen two causes close to Richard's heart to support with this appeal in his memory, and will share any donations received equally between them.

He was a great supporter of the church's purchase of a beautifully reconditioned 1904 C. Bechstein Grand Piano in 2017. He dearly hoped to see the fundraising for that completed. Of the original £18,000 cost, we have just over £6,000 left to raise.

During his final illness, Richard was beautifully cared for by the nurses at the Martlets Hospice in Hove. Through their kindness, every minute of his waning life was endowed with as much meaning and value as all those that had preceded it. They enabled him to die peacefully, with grace and dignity, and they made a difficult time incalculably precious for his wife Katherine. The hospice is an independent charity and needs to raise two-thirds of its costs from fundraising. The trustees gratefully welcome all donations, big and small.