I had the pleasure of meeting Paul at Southend Municipal College in the autumn of 1956. Paul and I had just enrolled, Paul in the art department and Tom in the science Department. We both shared a keen interest in photography. Paul had an expensive twin-lens Rolleiflex and I had Voiglander vitomatic. That was 64 years ago, and we both used our cameras extensively. It was a meeting of two people with mutual respect for each other. Paul was incredibly gifted and had an eye for his subjects. Consequently, he was very successful in his chosen working life. Paul was kind and generous to his friends. As young men, we also enjoyed a lot of fun together....especially at parties! Although we made our way in life separately with an average of 500 miles between us. It was always a pleasure to meet up from time to time. Very recently I had the pleasure of speaking on the telephone exchanging memories. Subsequently, we exchanged texts. Coronavirus, unfortunately, stopped us meeting together. A great pity. Well done Paul, you packed a lot into those 80 years. You are missed. Sadly Bronwyn, it is not possible for Margaret and I to be with you today. We hope the video link will work and we intend to watch from Scotland. Margaret & Tom Palmer

Uncle Paul, you were truly an amazing man. With many amazing stories. When you told me that time in hospital that you was ‘just an estate agent’. No you was more than that. You would light up everyone’s day with your playful nature and kind/caring heart. You went over and above what you should do with your job your family, your whole life. I truly adore you, as I told you, you are an inspiration to me and always will be. From your creative hands to your wise wisdom and now I will go on and tell my children (when I have some) all about you. You will be forever in our hearts. You created an amazing family that I will truly treasure and protect with everything I have. I’m so glad I was there with you on your last few days. Even if you did want me to get out after 5 mins of being there and then continued to dance with me with a big smile on your face <3 Love you forever and always uncle Paul, I’m sorry I cannot be there in person tomorrow I really am but so you know I will be watching, with this amazing technology we have and I will be thinking about you all day and more. Stay safe ‘pal’, I hope to see you again one day <3

Thinking of you Uncle Paul, you were the kindest gentleman, always loving, always caring, making me feel safe and secure, you are not gone but watching over us from above, another Angel who grew their wings, now fly high and continue to spread your wings around, love you lots Lisa xxxxxxxx