Dear Eileen and family We were so shocked to hear the sad news. Ian was fun to be with and a great scientist. I always felt proud to say my friend Ian was a distinguished professor in his field. His talents didn’t stop there either. During our Paddington College days, we took a break from scientific study to make a silent film, written and directed by Ian. He also took the role of Count Splatula, who preyed on women (my character in particular), who were foolish enough to walk alone in the forest (aka the old part of Highgate Cemetery). Tass played my friend who raised the alarm, whilst Brian’s character, Detective Shift, pursued the dastardly Count Splatula. Sadly, we were never able to obtain a copy of the film from the college. We spent many a college day lunchtime at the Wheatsheaf pub, where Ian would order a pint of “short death” or “gong gife” – his terms for Long Life – a beer that was widely available back then. In retrospect, his silly words are poignant and ironic. He was always making us laugh, although once the tables were turned. I remember us stifling giggles as he tried to dodge the unwelcome advances of one drunken student, whose name escapes me now. Brian (de Souza) when he heard the sad news, wrote: ‘Cannot forget those good days at college. ……….He was a brilliant scientist whose contribution to TB research will never be forgotten.’ So long, Ian, you clever, funny guy. You left this planet much too early. May you rest in peace. Nicci (Yianni) Iacovou (Ian always called me by my surname - Yianni, even after I was married).