Comments

I only discovered this blog through the Dignity in Dying campaign newsletter. I’m so grateful for David’s life and for you Tim, his friend. And...

Endorsing all of the above. Tim played so many roles, and, above all, the way that he played them was heroic.

We've never met,Tim, but thank you so very much for the extraordinary devotion you have shown in supporting Dave. The video is so moving, an...

Dear Tim, Thank you for sharing such a beautiful video of David and his journey. Thank you for being a wonderful friend and an exemplar...

Thank you, Tim.

Thank you so much for the wonderful Blog and for being a good friend to David the family cannot thank you enough God Bless you...

What a fitting tribute to a beautiful human. I’m so sorry for his loss, to those who knew him much better than I did. Even...

Goodbye, David. Sorry you needed to go but happy that it was your choice. Seeing Tim's video brought back memories of times in Saudi Arabia....

Tim, I wanted to echo the many others who are thanking you for everything you've done helping Dave, in so many ways, right to the...

Thank you very much Tim, for sharing your blog entry and this moving video. David surely will be missed deeply by his many loyal friends....

Goodbye my friend, so peaceful and happy, leaving me with memories of such fun over the years. Thank you Tim you have been wonderful looking...

Tim, You have become a friend of us all. Your friendship and care for David has endeared you to all his friends. Thanks for the...

I can only reflect what has been said above, sincerely and with deep thanks, Tim. Now it is important for YOU to take some time...

We echo all the above comments, but particularly want to add our thanks to you, Tim, first for the immense difference you have made to...

Thank you… yes… beautiful, Graeme

The work is sung by Voces 8......fabulous group and such wonderful words for this video.

'PRIDE' on his back Thumbs up landing Snow from above Friend by his side 'Be good' his last words to us Smiles Beautiful Thank you...

Wow. “Uncle” David has been in my life since I was born. What a man 🙂

Thank you Tim for all you did for David and his friends.

Yes, I echo the thoughts above. David has brought so much to so many lives. He was a wonderful friend. He was able to achieve...

I would like to say that I am sorry Tim, but I am not. I am sad,very sad at the news, but David got his...

Oh Tim...Thank you for sharing all of this, and for the beautiful video... David's typical day? What can one say... just what? Not only the...

Dear Tim, this is the most wonderful and moving video and shows as, yet again, the extraordinary courage of our friend. I am so grateful...

We mourn a lovely and generous friend for more than 30 years. Auf Wiedersehen in a better world

No words.

Sleep tight lovely friend. Lots of love always.

A very good life and a a lovely man. What more could we ask for.

Sadness and Gladness.. See you on the other side.

‘I have passed the mountain peak and my soul is soaring…’ Khalil Gibran… David, you telling us to be good, and that you’ll be watching,...

Goodbye David, I'll never forget you and all your good works

David, I have said my goodbye separately but wanted to say here what a good friend you have been and what a good man. Keith...

Goodbye,dear friend

Goodbye David

Dear David goodbye god bless you will always have a place in my heart x Barbara

Bye cousin I can only hope to have such dignity and courage Paul

Farewell David. We will always remember you.

Imagine all of us holding your hand as you cross the crystal sea. Lots of love.

Lovely last post. As all your posts in this extraordinary, diverse, life-filled blog. Thank You. We pledge. Fare thee well dear golden chimney sweeper. No...

I'm so glad you've arrived safely in Switzerlad. I'm so glad of Tim's great support. I'm so glad of you're wonderful friendship with Malc, which...

You will always be with us, and us with you dearest Dave. Loved by so many. XxxxxX

God speed DP. You will be greatly missed. See you out there, somewhere x

Darling David They say a man is not dead while his name is still spoken and yours my wonderful cousin will be spoke for many...

and all the Trumpets sounded for him on the other side.

Farewell David, My thoughts are with you now and will be with you tomorrow❤️

Farewell, David; many friends will accompany you tomorrow and will keep cherishing the moments spent with you.

Farewell, dear friend

Reconnection only recently - and by a chance reading of your story in a newspaper - has given me a lot to think about, and...

God bless, Dave. We will always remember you for your courage and humour in the greatest adversity. XXX

God speed, old friend

Dear David, do you remember the time dear Frances Hardy whipped us all together to perform the Faure Requiem in "Canterbury" ? I played the...

Dear David l hope you are now safely in Switzerland l hope you find the peace you deserve and to say you will never be...

David, just want to say thanks for all you did for the college, for inviting me to talk at Society events, for numerous enjoyable conversations...

Indomitable David, reconnecting with you after so many decades, especially in such dire circumstances, has been truly inspirational. I no longer lob out a flurry...

Hey Cousin, All our thoughts are with you, such courage is quiet humbling. Wherever this journey takes you I'm sure you will make your mark...

Oh David, you really couldn’t make this up. That you should have to go through such stress at this the eleventh hour is criminal it...

I'm so sorry that you and Tim have had so much extra stress. I wish we could all be with you to help you and...

Darling David what can I say, except, use all the strength you have left to go to Switzerland in peace and know that you go...

Dear David, You have been a completely delightful friend, an inspiration in many things, a very good neighbour and, more prosaically, a mentor in all...

Yes, we have been thinking of you as the news about the travel restrictions came through and wondering if your plans would be disrupted. It...

Thank you for taking the time and energy to share all this, as ever, Dear David Invictus. Again, so very relieved, and thankful to Tim...

David, I’m so glad that “Sir Omicron Pye” has not derailed your plans and all credit to the Canton authorities for their intelligent and compassionate...

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Dearest David....... I thought this might happen when I saw the news about the Swiss restrictions. Am so relieved that the Canton has seen the...

I was once a hotel waiter in Kanton Basel-Stadt (two summers, early-70s)... love all the cantonal flags... These days were a bit before the Saudi...

Dear David, I heard via Tony Watts at the Society that the progress of your illness has come close to completing its arc. Before that...

Sending you my love, David.

Working together with you at St. Catharine's, and your love and dedication to the College, and the Society, is a memory I will treasure. You...

I am sending you my love, David.

You are so loved Dave, and thank you for everything you have brought into our lives. I am so glad that you will finally be...

Wishing you a safe and comfortable journey David. Pleased your going out on your own terms. I shall pop a bottle of bubbles and remember...

Dear David, It has been a privilege and an honour to have known you, a person whose positive influence on so many people has been...

Dear David, reading the Peace of Mind journal over the weeks has been inspirational for us and, indeed, our children. «  Chapeau bas » for what...

We have heard the chimes at midnight Master Peace. Jesus, the days that we have seen.

We are so sorry that you have had to endure this terrible illness David. Your courage in dealing with it is amazing as an inspiration...

Dear David, I have only had the privilege to know you for fewer than ten years but you have been a shining star as an...

Dear David, Our paths only crossed through St Catharine’s Society - but you were a giant there! You had such creativity, insight and energy and...

Dear David, I must thank you for your frank and enlightening blogs.... thanks to you, I get to understand aspects of what a close relative...

Dear David We have only known each other for 10 or 15 years, through St Catharine's and the St Catharine's Society. At our age that...

Dear David, Having been a neighbour of yours for several decades and involved in HDRA with you - you set the scene in our area...

Bon voyage -always remembered... Dom Price x

It has been a privilege to know you David. Good memories of Cats Society, which we now have to call Alumni Society apparently. All the...

Dear David as usual I failed to send my original message! My thoughts are with you and your courage and fortitude in this time of...

My thoughts are with you. Sending you all my love.

David…. good will, old friendship and kind regard… I’ll drink you a cup of kindness… Thank you, again… Graeme

Huge amounts of love and support flowing to you from us in Suffolk. Safe trip next week. To find your peace in such a beautiful...

May God hold you in the palm of His hand as "heaven's morning breaks and earth's vain shadows flee."

I'm thinking of you David x

Thinking of you with love David and so sorry you journey included this monstrous journey. I will support re research etc. for the rest of...

Thinking of you David

I can do little but echo all of the comments above. Vivienne and I are in that multitude who love and care for you; you...

As Meriel says, my heart is too full to express all the emotions. Such sadness that this cruel illness has plagued you in these last...

Your bravery has been an example to us all, and it is sad to learn that the illness has at last become too much to...

My thoughts and prayers are with you all the way, and also with your dear friends who will be by your side. I am sure...

... atque in perpetuum, frater, ave atque vale ...

Dear Dave, your blog has given so much to your readers and you have taken us all on a journey. Through your recollections, your musings....

David… I can assure you the Ensure drinks don’t taste too bad at all… My mother required nutritional supplement for a while before her recent...

Dear David, Thank you for inspiring us all when you were a Lay Reader at the Canterbury Group in Dhahran.

David old son! Of all the senses I’ve always rated taste highly. If I found myself without it but, like you, relished the sight and...

In 2001 I wrote a Cantata for the Otley Choral Society's 60th birthday celebrations, which sadly has not been performed since, which I called 'The...

So beautifully said, Charlotte and Sally. I can only add my whole-hearted admiration and agreement. I think of you often, David, as do all who...

Goodness David… what a regime… and so many people haven’t even wanted to get vaccinated against Covid-19!!

Amen to all that.

Ditto to all of the above! Peace be with you x

As mummy as said, a huge pat on the back for you Dave…for writing the blog through all that you are faced with, for your...

There are very special people on this earth who are sent to us to show the rest of us the way. You are one such...

Firstly, I think you deserve a very big pat on the back for reaching another milestone with this incredible blog.You have kept it going through...

And hello John. Of course I remember you. Those years in Saudi Arabia stay very fresh in the mind. Thank you for the ‘life summary’’,...

Hello David, Graeme Eddie sent me your news. We had often spoken of you and wondered where life had taken you. Remember me? We played...

Glad to see that you still have your humour and wit David. Thank you for sharing this with us. I love the use of the...

This is a wonderful summary, ( and as always full of humour!) of the rich and varied stages of your life. But although Shakespeare says...

Love this personal canter, Dave! And then beginning to explore AYLI for the first time! I like the cannon / capon rhyme - I guess...

Is there a technical term for pantaloon envy? Asking for a friend.

You offer tempting peeks into your life post-KSA, David… You only have around three years or so on me but you always seemed so much...

Well David, I'm not sure you should be happy to be called a pantaloon. The Shorter Oxford says meanings , apart from the trousers, are...

'The Baroness' - Ruth Davidson - had to go all the way to Westminster to say that voting against an assisted dying bill in Holyrood...

Excellent work by the wonderful Dignity in Dying. So glad so many spoke sensibly and compassionately (whilst also deeply frustrated by uninformed / illogical /...

Thanks… Always…

And in this nice quiet spot I’m proving that I’m still around, Graeme. The end isn’t that far off, but I’m still chugging on for...

Hello both! Good to hear from you and thank you so much for your kind words. What will be will be, I suppose. I’m pretty...

Thank you Laurie, and Liz, and Hello! Long time! Thanks for the update. Well done! And thanks for the kind words. And very best wishes...

I have chosen this nice quiet spot to add a few more lines David (and Tim, if I may)... Gosh, I do remember the visit...

Thinking of you each day and will to help you if needed love always

Always in our thoughts ... no publicity needed for that!

I'm sorry that it wasn't what you were expecting or wanted and do hope it wasn't upsetting when you have so much to contend with....

When Tom told us about the Sky piece on Saturday, I ecosia-ed you to see if in other media that day. The other one I...

Back on 26 August there was a post to an Icelandic Facebook Page (Assisted Dying) about you… and referring to a BBC report 3 August…...

Liz spotted a picture she thought might be of you recently. Sad to hear of your illness but impressed at your determination to choose your...

It is said that “No man is gone, while his name is still spoken” and your name has been spoken many times over the years....

Thank you... The decades pass in a flash yes... and yet some things take just so long... I refer of course to changes to the...

Yes, it’s me Graeme. I expected you’d check the blog. Good to hear from you. It’s been 35 years! And thanks for the update on...

I have been delving into your post David, and I now know from the content that you are indeed the David Peace that I knew...

Your blog has been a blessing, as your friendship has been, for all of us. Many thanks to Tim for this service, and for his...

Thank you for what you are doing David, I hope that you find peace and a respite from your suffering.

Ha! Love the sound of that table. Hope mothers and scones too. And Libyan beers. And that's just the kitchen. Oh, and (hoping this is...

What else is there to add, Chris (above) has said it all. However, my own love is with you in spirit every day as is...

I didn't want this post to be uncommented. I know so many will have read it, with deep sadness and love; and are speechless in...

The brilliant thing about your blog DP, is that is combines the fascinating, nostalgic, informative and when it dips into the trivial, it it all...

David, I have enjoyed your blog and reading about your interesting life only hear little snips about where you were and what you were doing...

Sorry about the choking attack my thoughts are always with you

Your other friends above have said it all really. I wish I could wave a wand and give you some respite from the onslaught of...

So sorry to her about the choking attacks. I can only guess at how frightening that must be. Huge hugs and lots of love wending...

Rest assured old son that whatever you include in your blog, on whatever subject, will be welcomed and appreciated by your readers as the heartfelt,...

David your blogs have kept me and mine in touch with you in such a lovely way. We have marvelled at your stories been amazed...

My heart aches for you as every day becomes more of a struggle. Your blog has been a gift to all your friends and I...

Memorable story indeed. To my mind, DH stands for something else here...another kind of head! (The efficacy and smiles of your last Spanish tale obviously...

A member of the Inuit tribe - Pypov?

Happy Peace Day, Warren (love this!)

We suffered a particularly vicious and bad-tempered headmaster at my secondary school whose favourite activity was persecuting the boys when they couldn't answer a question....

I love these confessions of your discipline strategies! I've been trying to remember some of Malc's more interesting techniques and can recall a couple that...

So sorry to hear you have been struggling and do hope your sleep improves. It can be so debilitating. Thank you for making such a...

Sorry to see still no change on latest health front, Dave. Poor you. Thanks for taking the energy to write this, beautifully crafted as ever....

Glad to see your blog again I’ve been wondering how you are even more than usual over the past fortnight. I hope sleep returns soon...

Always in my thoughts and l pray each day for you Love always xx

I have always think of that poem when I walking in the countryside and now I will think of you My love and best wishes...

Yes... echoing previous comments and sending virtual hugs. Do hope the sleep improves and maybe you can find some more congenial "viewing matter" Mastermind and...

You are having such a tough time and are so stoic,hope the infection and cause clears up soon.lack of sleep always makes things worse

Glad you were able to get at least some rest. Hope the medication will knock out the infection and you'll be able to sleep. You're...

Good to see that you're back blogging, David. I was worried for a while.

I am so glad you had the strength to make an entry, to let us know how you are. Like everyone else in the past...

I’ve always loved that poem and have often remarked that the current trend regarding ‘mindfulness’ is not a new phenomenon since this poem was written...

Hi David, I too echo earlier thoughts and send you prayers for a rest and like others I hope your thought can wander alongside mine...

Hello David, and love, and prayers. As your mind wanders back over the memories of the years, I would be surprised if it didn't meet...

I love that poem......I often think of it when dashing around like a mad thing, and I have to make myself stop and just look...

You are amazing not to have felt the need to rest, sit and stare sooner Dave, and I too am really sorry it's been such...

So sorry you've had such a rough time; special prayers will be going up for you. I'm reminded of a favorite poster I had in...

I recall you tried sushi. Once...

I do believe faeces on the door would be a definite occurrence with an anus horribilis.

I remember an embarrassing moment, albeit it was caused by my mother’s error. Nearly every year we used to travel to France for our family...

As you know David, I was very lucky to survive a Brain Haemorrhage in my late 30's. Quite a few years later I was doing...

Q2 - multiple choice. What did DP knock up in the anus horribilis? A) Faeces B) Roy C) Steak tartare D) All of the above...

These are brilliant!! I've suffered various embarrassing moments during my life but a fairly recent one was particularly cringe - worthy. I was leading a...

Just brilliant Dave. You are so brave, and continue to do so much good for the MND community and raising awareness. Lots of love xxxx...

Fight the good fight David. You are speaking up not just for yourself but so many people who just ask to have their choice recognised....

I am so proud of you and so proud to be your friend. It was a wonderful tribute to you and to the MND cause....

What a good interview finger cross it goes though My love as always

Another wonderful contribution to the cause!

We absolutely reflect what others have said. "Choice" is the word that is important. Thinking of you, many times a day.

Well done, David! Love from Ann, Herman, Bethany and Jordan

Such a powerful and brave testimony and such an important contribution. I'm so glad it was out today and feel immensely proud of you xx...

Hard to know what to say, hard to speak. But thank you for speaking - your voice is somehow stronger than ever. And certainly stronger...

David, I have just seen a clip of your interview on BBC online news this morning. Brilliant

Being outside London at present and not able to access BBC M London on tv, Mike and I have watched your interview on YouTube. Excellent....

David, I've just seen your BBC interview while I was perusing Twitter with my morning tea. Your story has really touched me. I'm a volunteer...

Just seen your interview on BBC. A very thoughtful piece and a well edited article. Hope you manage a few days out in the “Peace...

Yes, well, as someone who gave up on the tedious business of shaving in about 1967, I think you look very distinguished with a beard!...

Dave you look SO distinguished in the photograph on the right! There's a look of Sean Connery about you...... xxxx

Dear David You really are heroic inspiration, I am so proud to call you my friend. We are all thinking of you here and sending...

Very distinguished......but not the "you" we know and love! (Surprised you even considered it for even 10 secs!) Paul adds his usual comment on seeing...

Dear David, As always, you are inspirational. Thinking of you with lots of love from Vienna and Oxford.

We’ll it’s all been said above really. So glad you can be so positive and so glad you can tell it as it is when...

Your bravery and determination are awesome. Hang in there, with or without a beard. Much love.

Hello David. I remember when you grew a beard a few years ago. Captain Birdseye!!! Go for it!!

Dave, you are amazing, and thank you for updating us, as always. I do remember attempting to do things one-handed when I broke my wrist...

David mon brave ! One comment on the difficulties involved with shaving one-handedly. I hated beards before I grew one but now think that they...

Exactly as Sue says - including even re wet shave 😀 So sorry things are even more difficult dear boy. It’s important that you share...

Thank you for the update. It is easy to read the blog and feel so uplifted by what you are achieving in spite of the...

I can think of many books I have loved and reread (some mentioned above) but I can also think of a few which were simply...

Great news - well done again Dave. I'm sure your interview will make a strong impact. Given this, I'm happy for Boris to delay having...

Re-reading is a great pleasure for me. I have a very large library having been an avid bibliophile since I was about 8 years old!!...

My father loved the Chronicles of Barsetshire, too. He urged me to read them as did you, and this reminder has prompted me to seek...

Absolutely, often read books more than once, some because I loved them as a child like Wind in the Willows and of course Pooh (...

Nancy.... I love the t-shirt! ! I would send it to my brother, who is moving house, after 30 years in one place, but who...

Read books again? You betcha. Some of them are my best friends. Some are comfort food for the brain and soul. Some are sure fire...

Thank you Hooky. Fingers crossed something like normal life will return next week. I’ll certainly keep blogging while I can. And thank you for your...

On a happier note, a couple who are neighbours - American wife and British husband - held an open-air barbecue on 4 July. I our...

I'm sure you will have enjoyed the two great matches this weekend - such a high standard of wonderful tennis! Malc and I were both...

Dear A Hillock, I try to avoid getting involved in Comments, welcome though they all are, but this one does deserve a response. It’s a...

Very glad you kept going with it DP, a lot of people have taken a lot from it 👍

Enjoy restful moments!

PS - huge thanks and admiration for all you’ve done in the last year. Wonderful entertainment and insights through the blog, as well as your...

Conscious of your two year diagnosis anniversary today, Dave. Thinking of you, as often of course. Have just re-read this post - lovely summary re...

You deserve a rest from your Superhero escapades! Just call it a Kryptonite day!

Absolutely bloody brilliant! I can't tell you how much I laughed and what an inspiration you are to me and to others. I am in...

Enjoy your quiet days and the sport, and thank you, as always, for staying in touch. Absolutely gripping on the sport front, and just what...

This is AMAZING! You are both amazing, and I hope you had fun doing it. Certainly looked like you did! Production and cast were outstanding....

Brillant

Bless you for keeping in touch. We've had some national morale boosting with sport this week, haven't we, and people certainly seem to be appreciating...

Fabulous twinkly post with sterling musical accompaniment! The twirling in the phone box was particularly dashing, and certainly caught the eye of passers-by! Thought the...

This is brilliant, top work DP & Tim!

Dave, huge congratulations!! You can, and should, take immense credit fot this - it's wonderful! It's fun and inspirational as are you - and Tim...

Nice one David!!

Congratulations on completing Roll21 and the fantastic video! I thought the music choices were great!

David, I absolutely loved this video, made me smile, made me laugh and brought a tear to my eye. My cousin would have loved this,...

Fabulous effort.....! I loved it, and the phone box was an inspired touch! Well done!

BRILLIANT video, David and Tim ! I suspect there were hints of Danny Boyle in there and a smattering of Benny Hill. I loved the...

Your blog is always so uplifting even on a serious matter. It's good to see the videos too. The longest day 2021 - at 21.21.21...

As Meriel - well done sir. Very much hope your powerful voice is broadcast. Sorry we didn’t do the 21 on the 21st - but...

Well done, David. We can only imagine what tiring work that must have been for you. Let's hope the broadcast moves people in the right...

Hard to avoid the downpour in London. Maybe ARAMCO?

"Young P"...who do you think you're kidding?? Cracking hooter though...

Brilliant David love the video, I love the circular movement! Go for it you have been so adventurous throughout your life and now is no...

If I had a hat on I would certainly take it off to you! Absolutely brilliant. I've a good mind to come over and hire...

I am sitting here with visions of you racing down the streets with pedestrians flying off in all directions like something out of a Tom...

Wonderful Dave!! Keep on rollin' and here's hoping you get to 21 by the 21st!! You're amazing xxxx

You are SUCH a sport!! Love the video and your 'go for it' guts! Xx

So love this video - not only the cinematic choreography but also that balletic handbrake turn. Beautiful. Keep rockin & rollin Dave & Tim! 😄...

Cheating seems somehow fair. I'll sponsor you in the Peacemobile (e-Max?) at £5 per mile. But there has to be video of you in the...

🤫

You obviously have inside knowledge, Keith. Don’t tell anyone!

Pavement Hog!!!! Is it true that Police Patrols on the M25 have been doubled in anticipation of your further ventures!!!

I'm so glad you are out and about, enjoying the parks and the sunshine. Your typical humour and wry observations on describing the reactions of...

Dave, I am so pleased that you and the P-Mobile are still having fun, despite the thoughtlessness / rudeness of some. It's awful to think...

Well done hope it goes through

Brilliant - love it. Enjoy your new found freedom!

RUN CHRIS, RUN!!! I know the thought of Dave and all other MND sufferers will keep you going throughout the training and on the day....

Have fun on it Dave, and honk that horn!! Great weather for it! xxxx

And a big "spoiler" on the back.....

Go Chris! Remember your 50 mile school walk back in the day?! Just wear proper footwear so that you dont get as many blisters as...

Walking or cycling are also options... or swimming I guess... and surely the Peacemobile too! Fetching MNDA orange vests or t-shirts provided too 🙂 BTW,...

“Singing together is the communion of the heart”. Beautiful phrase and absolutely true. And the communion endures: we last sang together over 30 years ago....

La Liberté guide nos pas...... Le Peuple souverain s'avance,.....

The dashing boulevardier on his steed! You look great. Have fun.

Go David!! ‘Go Faster ‘ stripe paint job needed. Enjoy xx

David ! Your article is everything I expected it to be- logical, lucid and quietly passionate. If this Bill doesn't go through this time it...

Typo!! "Comfortable" not "confirmable" Sorry!! Proof reading has never been my strength!!

Superb article David. I myself was, until a few years ago, uncertain about assisted dying. My concern was about safeguards not principles or ethics. I...

Enjoy, Lord Toad! https://youtu.be/40I23L5zUjc

Oh my God! Have the pedestrian population of London been warned!!! Bare-legged, forth he goes!!

A formidable sight!

I've been following all these stories with great interest and refraining from idle comment. One thing that stays in my mind, though, is the only...

Quite.xx

Mow 'em all down Dave!!!

Assisted Dying was discussed in the French Parliament last month (“Droit de mourir dans la dignité”). A law had been already voted in 2016 (la...

Dave, this is so powerful and so articulately put, as always. Putting it together in such a short timeframe must have been tiring and pressured,...

Your case for Assisted Dying in this country is convincing. It should make a big difference.

It’s so good to see that, as well as inspiring your friends and blog readers, you are now contributing to the national debate. When the...

Brilliantly put, Dave. Really powerful and compelling. A new first, or do you have other articles to your lordship’s name? So glad you were able...

It must have taken a lot of effort and willpower to submit this so quickly. As always your wish to help others, and your courage...

Metrical measures are easier in many ways, all being based on 10s, 100s, 1000s etc. The great thing about 'Imperial' measures is that they are...

Baroness Campbell's piece focussed on protecting those with disability from being ushered into an early and unwanted death. On the surface, a noble sentiment. However,...

Fantastic David, and very moving! I do hope it helps to alter the mindset of those who have no idea of what people in your...

David. This is amazing, I know Jane Campbell, or at least I did when she was Chair of the Social Care Institute for Excellence. She...

I think you did marvellously considering you weren’t primed at all.

Brilliant milestones Dave! Wonderful on the fundraising front, and let's definitely get to £25k now. Such great news for you with the wheelchair, I'm so...

How great to link up with this good St Cats man. Camilla and I will be on the Suffolk coast on Sunday and do hope...

Huge congratulations! It's a fantastic result on the fundraising and another initiative of which you should be very proud. As you say, let's keep it...

Brilliant! Look out pedestrians. We will need to buy you one of those hooters they used to put on the side of early cars! Xx...

Oh dear! The Dyson report into the Bashir interview with Diana has put the chat amongst the pigeonnes hasn’t it! A dreadful tale indeed that...

I was in Paris on business when Diana's car came to grief in the underpass and saw the flowers build up over the next few...

My goodness Vivienne, it's good to hear from you, and that's quite a story! I try not to get too involved in the Comments on...

Dear David, I love that you have written about this subject. I could go on for hours and hours (ask Michael if you don't believe...

So glad it surfaced. David was the mastermind for our return to the Sudan and he, like Ann was a wonderful travelling companion. It is...

Loved it David thank you for sending it out on the blog xx

Ditto to Cam... But also Wow! Incredible equilibrium having just encountered the dastardly James!! Have just re-read the two posts that I don't think I...

Dave, this is brilliant, and I'm so pleased that you have had such a welcome surprise. Wonderful for us too to see you and hear...

From stuff on line about Trafalgar Square pigeons, it seems said Mayor banned the feeding of pigeons along with the sellers of food to tourists...

Not a pigeon memory, but Jack is obsessed with pigeons...if I didn’t mind the mess I would invite all pigeons in SW London to come...

Years ago I was enjoying a beautiful evening in Khartoum with my late friend Dr. Halim Sabbar. Suddenly I was bombarded with the droppings of...

Ok, not pigeons, but “William Gibbs made his dibs / Selling the turds of foreign birds” Guano made him the richest commoner Victorian apparently.. See...

The above aviary where they are going to eventually release the pigeons is near Whitby. A great destination for tourists and packed out in the...

At the University of Texas at El Paso, the architecture is modelled on Bhutanese style, very lovely - Google it and see. The windows are...

Ach, that Janet beat me to it... Yes, your Exmouth house and street are some of my earliest memories (poss from subsequent year!) V exciting...

Dave, we loved your little house!! You very kindly lent it to us for our first holiday with baby,Christopher. We loved the fact that it...

14 year old KMC painted a very large eye on the white wall of my bedroom. It was about 5 feet across and was in...

I remember many years ago l was staying at my brother Michael’s holiday home at Landrum Bay and went into Exmouth with my mother and...

David, I think you have started a ball rolling! I think we can all come up with similar memories of experiments with colours, which may...

We bought a small 4 bedroom terrace house in Carlisle for £4000 in 1971(and sold it for £7000 two years later. Our pride and joy...

I remember the craze for what was called ‘wet look paint’ and I decided to paint an old double bed we had acquired in wet...

Sounds like you had the same taste as my brother Stephen in the 70's David. I can remember around 74/75 his bedroom at our family...

I've just watched it and agree, completely with you and Chris about Matt Hancock. Every question seemed to be fielded with ' a need for...

I just watched the clip of Barbara - very moving and powerful. Completely agree about Matt Hancock based on his ‘responses’ following that section. In...

Brilliant to read the latest re the fund. Well done Dave, Tim et al! I’ve just completed my first 10 mile run (poss ever?!) having...

As always, honourable and staying positive. I miss you my friend, how much I treasured being able just to drop in for a glass of...

I remember Malc and I watching a young Prince Charles play polo at Cirencester Park in the 70s. We went with Lorna who was working...

Hello Thank you so much for posting this. I was a soprano in the chorus, stacking dissonant hums as you declaimed so eloquently. It was...

This is terrific, David, musically, and hearing your splendid voice (RIP) as it once was! I don't know Waltham Abbey, but do have an interest...

Invictus is all I can say. You are so palpably the captain of your soul if not your body. I salute you.

Brilliant all round.

Yup you got me too!!

Dear David, Like Philip, how well you have served all of us. Thank you.

Your oration in Waltham Abbey may also have inspired King Harold in his presumed resting place outside the east window.

I was very moved by this - and, as Chris says, great work by Tim.

I believe so, too, Dave. He had, of course seen so many changes during his long life but he seemed to embrace much that was...

Wow! Brilliant stuff all round - the music and voice, and your explanation of the weaving and setting! Made me think of Wolf Hall (Hilary...

Wonderful! You do deserve an honour! I did not register the date but did wonder as I always understood that revealing it beforehand was virtually...

Absolutely wonderful Dave! XxXx

Wonderful..... I wish I had been there.

Amazing

What a hoot... Best April Fool since the Spaghetti Harvest....

At the heart of a good April Fool’s prank is plausibility and given how we are ready to believe you are deserving of some recognition...

I was had, as well, Tony! I agree that a gong is well deserved but am glad you got the better of some of us,...

I practiced and practiced my courtesy, however like an earlier comment, it may be a double bluff! Enjoy the day xx

Got me too! I’m hoping it’s a double bluff though... Some happy easterish blackthorn blossom for you https://photos.app.goo.gl/mtBNeYftWHoL2DUW7

Happy Easter! Your honour sure managed to fool me!

Brilliant, David! I was totally deceived - partly because it would of course have been so well-deserved. Anyway, Lord Peace of Marylebone you shall remain,...

And this is me, DP, thanking especially those who Commented or emailed me so positively about the ‘honour’, and to whom I immediately confessed. All...

Apparently only people from a country under the jurisdiction of the monarch are supposed to bow or curtsey ..... e.g. countries of theCommonwealth, Canada, etc....

Ditto to all previous comments. Awesome to get to 200 posts, and all of them have been brilliant in many varied ways. Thank you. Love...

Dear David, Happy Easter! Love from Ann Bell

It's been a wonderful 200 entries, David. You've taken the sourest of lemons and made the sweetest lemonade, and we all admire and love you....

Firstly, so many congratulations on this special anniversary! You have done everything that you set out to do - and so much more! Apart from...

Lovely to see the Lord's Prayer again..... I also have a treasured copy which was given to me by the same friends in SA. which...

Hello and once again thank you for your ‘uplifting words’ here in Monmouth the Family wonder every day how you are doing and as always...

What a lovely tribute from Christopher. Does Edward Wickham know about it? I wonder how it would sound played on the College organ? In part...

Dave, your huge courage, and commitment to raising awareness, has reaped great benefits, hasn't it! I've just looked at the fund and see that it...

Looking through my bookcase the other day, I came across a small paper booklet in Arabic. It's a teaching aid with lists of words, covering...

I’m told it says: ”O Prophet, we have sent you a witness, an evangelist, a warning and a farewell to God.”

So please you are having good treatment always in my thought xx

Beautiful! Our Father - abani / abaana ? (I googled) in the centre.. Do you know what the top boaty one's about?!

Brilliant trailer - well done Dave, and Tim, as always 🙂 Shared of course x

Take up touch typing! It will revolutionise your speech machine! It is hard to start with but I know you are always up for a...

As always brutally honest but with a fortitude that quite literally leaves me in awe. Would that we could relieve you of some of the...

Nothing wrong with velvet leisurewear! Nor patent brogues (whatever they might be). Says the guy who likes yellow socks, has never worn a single cologne,...

David, cast your mind back to our wedding day, when Anthony appeared at the end of the proceedings in his 'going-away' suit of olive green,...

All I can say is thank goodness you heeded some of this advice and never turned up for one of our Shepherd Market dinners in...

David, you didn't need the list..........you were always a snappy dresser when we knew you! (Others may have a different tale!) As for changing over...

She had me down as “Summer”, Meriel. More on that shortly!

I have always wanted to have my colours 'done' Dave, lucky you!! Not in the least bit offensive and just another lovely anecdote and memory....

We do enjoy your memories , David. You have had such an interesting and varied life..... so much to enjoy, and for us to appreciate...

Ditto to all comments above! Brilliant contributions from all in that event - including on MND Association’s research, approach, and “cautious optimism”; on various ways...

It sounds like they were very thorough and hopefully the techniques you discussed will be helpful. A rather exhausting night though...I hope you’ve rested since...

So very moving. Words fail me but emotions running high.

Hello David. Think you’re getting Rolls Royce treatment from the NHS. They must be very impressed to have a patient who is appreciative of their...

I can only reflect Janet's comments above, which sum up my thoughts entirely. Well done, all of your production "team" ..it was truly wonderful and...

I remember it well, David. For Oxford not only to win the game but to do so by hitting the winning shot into our box...

Dear Dave, of all your many achievements through life, this must surely be amongst the finest and most admirable. To do this showed such courage...

Thank you, again, for sharing. It's very hard to read but even harder to write, I'm sure, and unimaginably hard for you to live with...

“What a Wonderful World”

Hi David, thanks for a wonderful event which was informative, inspiring and extremely well organised. This whole project made all of us reflect on life...

And all instructions followed very precisely, of course.

Hope you enjoy the change of scene on Wednesday. It's the season of daffodils.

Great photograph David. Lots of love as always and good luck on 17th.

Boat Race yes I recall one of those!

Sorry! Thought my first one didn't submit !

Your thoughts echo many of mine, Dave. Although I feel you give them more benefit of the doubt, than I do! Whatever their motives their...

You voice many of my own thoughts, Dave. I am unsure why they did it and why now when there has been such true suffering...

Do hope all goes on Sunday and that many are able to join you. Shall be thinking of you. It's such a great idea and...

I hesitate to give an opinion, as so much comment has been made already in the media. However, what crossed my mind when I read...

Glass in hand, naturally!

Brilliant piece, Peace! You just need a sub-plot about events with an American on the boundary of the women's game, and a prize pig on...

Dear David I'd like to agree wholly with you, but I have some reservations. I agree that it was probably unwise for the Sussexes to...

Sorry. Should have responded earlier. When you register the automated response will say that the organiser will contact you with details. Minji will do that....

Fantastic Dave - I bet it took a lot of hard work, effort and energy - we will of course watch. Lots and lots of...

Your reputation precedes you ...

Sock mending was obviously crucial! I wonder how many of the phrases you and Malc found useful on your travels! Do feel it's a shame...

The chambermaid never comes when I ring either…

Sounds brilliant and so important, of course. Thank you Minji, Tim, Tony, Dave and all... Signed up - look forward to seeing you then x...

Fantastic news that you had your second jab so quickly Dave!! Absolutely amazing how it's being rolled out... I hope you haven't had any side...

I'm so sorry you can't enjoy a Full English any more Dave, and you are just amazing to still write in such a lighthearted way,...

I know that Malc had some great outings here with you. And remember that you had some memorable match stories! I shall look forward to...

I adore a Full English! Many years ago I went to the Edinburgh Festival. The B&B served a fabulous breakfast - I didn't have to...

Ha! Not sure what Dad would make of this toast! I’d have raised a Black Country black pudding if I’d had one to hand too.....

How do you keep so cheerful but then you do have the Fisher genes in you

Hello David. Funnily enough, I cooked myself a “Full English” last week. Breakfast is normally Orange Juice, Cereal and coffee but I decided to treat...

It's a first! First time I've been toasted in beans on toast!

I don’t know how you manage to combine this brilliant awareness raising of the wretchedness of MND (and yet with some reassurances for others with...

Emergency operations seem to be in a different world from 'routine' operations. I have been fortunate never to have needed a 'routine' operation which could...

I don't think that you should feel uneasy or have qualms about have your op., Dave. As you say, your situation was critical, and, hopefully,...

Dear David, Could you be visualised on this map eleven years ago? On18 January 2010 I was delighted to receive an email from you in...

By 'this' I meant this (of course): https://www.raremaps.com/gallery/detail/14745/a-new-and-accurate-map-of-nubia-abissinia-together-with-a-bowen

You seem to have a more monochrome version of this Emmanuel Bowen map from 1744. But you already knew that...... Just having a bit of...

So pleased you’ve restarted the Marvels of Molyneux St series. And this really is marvellous - the age, beauty, and incredible clarity and prominence of...

Well, it certainly looks like it. Not sure about the description in P's example though, where it says there are 'decorative celestial models in the...

Looks like Rigobert Bonne's map published 1787 - a few copies on ebay. There is avery similar map based on 45 degrees south whch seems...

Is this the one? https://www.raremaps.com/gallery/detail/16888/mappe-monde-sur-un-plan-horisontal-situe-a-45d-de-latitude-bonne

That just wonderful David hope you reach £15000

Proof that courageous souls like you are good for charities! I was already contributing to another MNDA fund - in memory of a wonderful woman...

This is a great result so far and very heartening to see that the fund keeps growing. As we know, you and your blog have...

These are brilliant Dave!! XxXx

What a wonderful wacky set of photos! If you've got to use a wheelchair, you might as well pretend to have some fun with it....

Great idea! I've just reestablished links with old friends in South Sudan. And Happy Chinese New Year!!!!

Love this Dave! 🤪 X

This is such fun and so clever! A magnificent man in a flying machine comes to mind! I'm sure you're making everyone chuckle. Many congratulations...

So you, sophisticated on the outside and mad as a hatter on the inside! Love it 😊.

Absolutely brilliant, to be able to live your fantasies through the use of new technology is beyond my imagination. Thank you for sharing. Hope you...

I think you BOTH deserve a medal! Well done! Certainly brightens my day sitting looking out at the snow falling in Yorkshire!

Nice to see you getting out and about...

Brilliant pictures, Dave, and lively commentaries. How do you do it? Look forward to seeing you in the Tour of Britain! All the best!

That just so wonderful xxx

I don’t know, one night stands and other goings on. It’s all happening at Molyneux Street! Makes our lockdown sound positively parochial! Oh and the...

Ha, yes, before mine too! Somehow the Who the f*%# version entered my consciousness somewhere along the way.. Good point about Sally 🙂

'Les Intouchables' is a great film! Worth watching for any reason. I'm going to look it up again and watch it tonight. Watch it, David,...

Hi David, You following the arguments going on at the Wallace Collection? Mike https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/feb/05/backlash-as-wallace-collection-considers-closing-library-to-public

https://youtu.be/Z6qnRS36EgE is correct first link - for what it’s worth!

Ha, well done Dave! I very much doubt this would have made it into your Desert Island Discs, even if you’d met Alice 24 years...

I agree with Meriel, but Alice does sound an amazing lady! Do hope your one night stand provides helpful information for the hospital. Could you...

You are very brave and very stoical! I couldn't for one moment imagine getting any sleep at all, with wires and "bits" strung around my...

That sound good

Glad to hear you 'jab' adventure went without a hitch. I've always thought you should try to turn everything you can into an adventure although...

Yep, definitely David coming through 🙂

Feel the same. Can definitely hear you in your 'new' voice, perfectly intelligible so I'd go with that but if you are really unhappy about...

Great to hear and see pics of your epic adventure, who would believe those of us with needle phobia are actually thrusting a naked arm...

Really glad you've had first jab, got new head support, and a successful day! Obviously nothing like your previous adventures or even trips to Lord's...

So pleased you have had the jab and you are still very cheerful keep safe xx My love always Barbara xx

Amanda Gorman's reading of her poem 'The hill we climb' was followed by an enormous surge of internet searches for the red hairband and yellow...

Am so glad you've had it! Typically, Dave, you've given us a vivid and amusing account and, as always, shown your great appreciation of the...

It's good to hear from you, Dave, and life doesn't sound that humdrum, rather eventful with all the practical issues... Hoping the jab went smoothly...

Lovely to hear your voice David. Can perhaps understand why you appear not to be quite so happy, maybe it is a reminder to you...

Yep! That'll do nicely! It sounds like you..... Well done! Big Hug coming your way, suitable distanced from Yorkshire, of course.

Definitely hear DP there! Hope you found it reasonably easier to operate.

Definitely YOU! It's Burns Night tonight - could it recite one of his?

Please keep your own voice

Doh!

How fantastic is all that! I am totally amazed how good it all sounds. Yes, I agree it is lovely to her your own voice...

I can't help but wonder what the other options are, you know, the ones you didn't put on the shortlist. Even cheap satellite navigation systems...

Both Mike and I agree that your voice is perfectly fine even though it does not sound just like the Dave we know.

I agree with the others! l can hear you, too, and yours is certainly the nicest voice! x

My preference would be to keep your own voice please David. However, if you feel happier then Daniel would get my vote.

What amazing technology! At least we Americans have something to be proud of. Definitely keep your own voice; it's very understandable and clear. This reminds...

Hi Dave. I agree with Ant - DP voice v intelligible in this, and can definitely recognise it as you! Good to keep your individual...

The Peace dulcet tones are still there and perfectly intelligible despite the mashing, but if you want a change then it's Arthur for me. Hawking's...

Many moons ago, probably back in 1974, I was in Pakistan staying with a friends whose father was in the diplomatic service and had been...

With a group from Southwark Cathedral in Zimbabwe in 2014. Anticipated accommodation full - 'no room at the inn' - so we found ourselves in...

Coincidentally, one night, also in Saudi Arabia, I was wakened by by my cat doing acrobatics on my bed. I awoke to find a huge...

I think Peter Sellers used it, Denis, when parodying some self-important politician, but whether he was the first I know not.

I was asleep one night in Saudi Arabia and awoke itching in various places. I thought this was a bit odd so I got up...

"But wait, I hear you cry" - my goodness, was that a quote dragged up from a boyhood memory, or am romanticising? I thought immediately...

This is me, DP himself. Thank you Chris. Extraordinary! No idea my old college had included it in its carol service. Alfred Lord T would...

Such an apt and amazing piece. And amazing memory (even with help of google) to recall it. But here’s another amazing thing: through a chance...

I too have been watching with horror at the events in Washington although like many I was not altogether surprised. As the saying goes 'All...

It really was so so lovely to see and hear you and in spite of what you might think you shine through it all, challenged...

I laughed hysterically at this. The musicians and the singer are just as you expect them to be, formal and serious and then this sound...

A stunningly beautiful piece. I came across again some years ago while watching the film 'Master and Commander' do evocative. Thanks David for reminding me....

You're so right, David. Our American Founders warned us that constant vigilance is required to protect our democracy, but many people have become complacent. A...

A beautiful poem, moving and uplifting sentiments. Good luck to the world for 2021.

You could not have chosen a more appropriate poem to capture not only Tennyson’s mood, but the relevance of, as you sa, to today. I’ve...

Thanks for your lovely Christmas video, and thoughts about New Year - you're right, Tennyson got it just perfectly. Yesterday 5 valiant members of my...

If you've got en chamade trumpets why not flaunt them! One of the Assistant Chaplains I worked with at Marlborough insisted I played the Boellmann...

And Tennyson wrote this when he was in the throes of personal loss and grief, didn't he. As you say, Dave, there is a great...

Hi David, that was so wonderful to see you and you look wonderful as always. You are an inspiration to us all. Great video and...

Dear David, it's wonderful to see you on the blog our thought are with you and hope the new year will be better for everyone...

Great to see you David, still looking dapper! The tree doesn't look bad either. Merry Christmas and much love, Caroline

Great to see you DP, shall miss the blog over Christmas but look forward to its return in 2021. Keep up the great work and...

Amazing to see you Dave, and wonderful to see / hear your message. So uplifting and positive at this time, thank you so much, and...

I've loved reading about and listening to your choices. Some probably known to your readers but others a delightful introduction. And further insights into the...

Let’s hope next year is better for everyone and more importantly it’s it’s not too difficult for you. Our thoughts are with you and I’m...

I agree, wholeheartedly, with Chris. Your courage, resilience and humour must be the biggest inspiration to us all this Christmas. It's tremendous to read that...

So good to see and hear you Dave. Thank you for this video - and to the wonderful Tim too! It’s been an annus horribilis...

A Golden Retriever. A Golden Retriever is a dog. A dog is a Golden Retriever.

NO hesitation with the suggestion of a springer spaniel..... friendly, googley deep brown eyes, floppy ears, full of energy, loving companion, ready to do anything...

As a stranger in a strange land, one of the elements I’ve come to love about the UK is their willingness to embrace silliness.

Dave, you are so right about laughter. Your blogs have been shot through with your wonderful humour, sometimes making me smile, sometimes laugh out loud....

🙂

Dear David, Here is a very special Christmas message from you to us 24 years ago and now from us to you and to all...

Wonderful keeping listening to it

Was also hoping this would be brought to your island.. Remember you speaking about it when we were thinking about music for Dad/Malcolm's funeral, and...

I am so pleased you chose this - it was always one of Malc's favourites too. Lovely to think of you both enjoying, it all...

Thank you for all this detail, David: it is so important that we know all this, terrible as it is.

We can't all run seven marathons in seven days! But this gives us a chance to do something for research and for you x

Such a great idea, and thank you Tony for setting this up. We all want to help in any way we can xxxx

PS (as can't edit these, and I seem to post here at night when tired!) - 'forever' only until research has found cure, and no...

Thank you Dave, and Tony, for this. Have just set up a direct debit - little and often forever! Really easy to do.

FABULOUS IDEA , David, and I am sure the fund will get enormous support. We all feel so helpless knowing the challenge you face; it...

Thank you for all the information and I just hope you will soon feel a little stronger. My thoughts are with you and my prayers....

Thank you, dear Dave, for sharing this so bravely and openly with us. I'm sure it was tiring and hard to write. Very hard for...

A U oo Ay o aw a

... https://youtu.be/y3AiGw8mkq0

Sorry, me again! Talking of sound + visuals... Have just stumbled across this YouTube of Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D Minor in a way...

Wow again! Amazing video about Macy’s. And yep, your disc awesome in both visuals and sound... Thanks Dave and Tim. So many memories of Dad...

Wherever in the world you go to live, if you can play an organ you will be welcomed with open arms!! I have amazing memories...

Many happy hours in organ lofts of various and sundry places I too did spend!

A stunning piece. I unfortunately did not inherit my father's wonderful voice. Both Paul and I could not sing if our life depended on it...

A stunningly beautiful piece. I think I first heard it at the 3 choirs festival when I was still at school. Haunting but full of...

We must mention your animated recorder performance of Scott Joplin's Entertainer! In Saudi Arabia. What glorious ragtime!

Reminds me of when I had to teach recorder classes when I was in Carlisle: the cathedral paid me peanuts to sing or play for...

Wow, quite something for a 17 year old... I’m sorry to say I didn’t know it at all. Have read up on Wikipedia and now...

The wonderful thing about the recorder is that it's so portable, and you only need three other people to make some very nice music. Also,...

A most wonderful piece of music and truly awe inspiring. Perfect for you to lie and listen to under your palm tree! I have sung...

I am sure you will be a great help to one another Was lovely to hear from you the other day in my thought and...

Am so sorry about Linda. As Meriel says, you will surely inspire her, as well as giving her some very fascinating reading. I do hope...

It makes me cry, too, David, even when I play the Herbert Brewer arrangement of the Angel's Farewell at the end of funerals, which I...

You will give her such hope and inspiration.......what an amazing chance! Thinking of you every day, and now Linda too.

So glad to find that you share so many of my feelings on this great work, David. I go to any performance I can, and...

I think the first time I sang Dream of Gerontious was with you and the London Choral Society, David, and it was a tremendous experience....

Lovely to hear your reactions to Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius. It’s not a work I know well but I recognise the sentiments that music can...

A great third choice - and many years ago you introduced us, too, to the wonderful Janet Baker!

Its a very special piece David and thanks for sharing your memory of your school performance! John Pearly-Shirt indeed!!! He was a wonderful singer. The...

As you say not the most cheerful piece. I think it went over my head all those years ago but then I was sooo much...

You continue to amaze us, David! Rest well, and know that we are all thinking of you, sending our prayers, and drinking plenty of bubbles...

Dulce Domum. Nothing better! Well done David.

Great news and so glad you had someone to help you settle back in, you must be exhausted. Time to rest and let your body...

Well done so please you are back home and that you had a friend to help you keep safe think of you and saying a...

Well done David I’m glad to hear you are home and settled. Much love as always

So pleased you’re back home with music, kammavaca, quiet! Well done, sir, on your epic journey indeed. Take it eaaaassssy 🙃 x

Oh dear. I’m breaking my rule of not engaging in these Comments. Thank you Nick, old pal. Kind of you to write. Great to have...

Such good news, Dave, after everything you've been through. Enjoy the rest when you make it home. All the very best, Mari x

🍾🥂Here’s to you from all of us. Oh and here’s your 🥇medal - you deserve it.

Sorry for the delay, I wrote earlier but was distracted by Mum and forgot to press send! So very pleased the op went according to...

So please you are recovering well our praises have been answered hope to hear from you soon Barbara and all the Fisher family xxx

It was worth all the prayers - it sounds as if you had quite a few pray-ers rooting for you. On the day we had...

What a lovely choice. We watched a lovely performance of the Requiem on the TV last night (14.xi) from the Coliseum, which was very moving,...

Such very good news Dave. Look forward to reading more of your blog soon. Caroline

Thank God or goodness, as preferred! What a story and what quality writing. Perhaps we will have a glass of bubbly on your behalf. Hope...

Dave, It occurs to me that, largely through the blog, you have made this a really interesting period in your life, a time that could...

Fantastic news David. So relieved

So pleased to hear the good news was praying for you all-day hope you will soon be home and back to so normality Love Barbara...

Fantastic! God save the NHS ('cos this bloody government won't)! That's such great news, David. You must be so relieved. I'm opening the champagne at...

David, great news. E & I are so pleased to hear all went well.

You're marvelous, and I'm sure the medical staff have been happy to have such a balanced, witty, and grateful patient! All the best.

Great to see your positive blog, prayers answer for now! I’m so glad it worked out and you are able to smile. We are all...

Brilliant news...let me see if I can find some experimental Champagne.

Wonderful news, must be such a relief for you, no doubt all your Specialists will breathe more easily too. Hopefully you will be more comfortable...

Brilliant news.. Good old NHS especially in lockdown times.. Friday 13th not so bad then... Good luck David.

All of your blog readets were willing it to be a success and it was! Well done. Your Cats magazine awaits you.

Such great news!! And such relief felt by everyone, I'm sure. Huge admiration for you, as well as well as the NHS, for your constant...

Bravissimo! You’ve come through the toughest physical experiences and still emerge with the ability to write clearly, dispassionately and, dare I say it, entertainingly, about...

Hooray! Love from Ann Bell

So pleased David! Well done, and good luck with the PEG. ( Not sure you will be able to taste the champagne, but what the...

Hope all went well today, David - Lisa and I are sending you several truckloads of good wishes and positive vibes.

Love that Sweet Caroline!

This morning I was wondering Dave if you were already in the operation so it is good to know exactly when it is to happen....

Think of you and pray all goes well my love always

Such a beautiful piece Dave, and I love this story! xxx

What a great code "word"... ingenious! and instantly recognisable by musicians. Maybe they can play some lovely choral music in the background while you are...

As above. A lovely choice. In my thoughts tomorrow and thereafter

Thanks Dave, for the beautiful music. And great to read your memories. Wishing you all the very best now for the op and beyond...

Thanks, Dave: the Mozart Requiem is one of my favourites and it was lovely to hear the Benedictus again.

Wonderful! It made my day to hear this and read your story. Thank you! x

I have so many happy memories (as I slowly slid down through all the voice types) of singing next to you in rehearsals and concerts,...

Wonderful! It's made my day to hear this and read your story. Thank you! x

A stunningly beautiful piece.

I remember it well too.... what a wonderful blessing to be able to make music in such a challenging environment. I still have my old...

I remember that Musical Evening very well. It was actually 1983, my last concert in Arabia; I left two days later to try (unsuccessfully) to...

Challenge number one - huge sigh of relief. The system held up under fire, and enough Americans refused to identify with Trump's bigotry and xenophobia....

Well, now we have great positive news on challenge number one! And am so pleased that you are agreeing to challenge number three. I'm sure...

“ How would you make those choices?” 8 Works by Ralph Vaughan Williams The Lord of the Rings Trilogy as my Religious work The Woodlanders...

I see no reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot.

Excellent question! ...

So so please you have a date. We will all being collectively crossing our fingers, arms, legs etc for you.

Thinking of you so pleased you have a date love. always Barbara

So pleased to hear you’ve now got another date, trust this time all will go well this time so your present difficulties will be a...

David, great news about the op dates. All the very best for completion this time.

Every good luck for the 13th Dave. Hope this time it all goes really well.

So please you have a date and hope all goes well think of you each day and enjoying your blog xx

Excellent news about the date for the op old son. We’ll soon see you back home with a vastly improved eating system. British public life...

SO pleased with the news! And very relieved for you, Thank you, as ever, for the update. I've just googled Baroness Trumpington. What a fascinating...

Love today’s piece.. A bit surprised that such a feisty character didn’t go for Lady Six Mile Bottom! Shame. Brilliant news about Friday 13th. Lucky...

Yes, it is always fun to think of what it might be like to have been born at another time, but, given your familiarity with...

Thanks for giving us the update, even if it is ‘no news’.

Thank you David for those eight lines they work for me too. I’m glad to hear there is some movement re the PEG let’s hope...

Good morning David. It’s good to know things are progressing, fingers crossed and also lots of good wishes for a date really soon. You’re absolutely...

I feel reassured - mostly, of course, by your continuing positivity and strength of character. But, as well as all the nearby medical help it...

Hi Pedro Sorry for slow reply. Just to reiterate, he can’t actually read this text, but is clearly more expert than anyone else I’ve found!...

Ditto to all other comments. Oddly, I’ve found this blog has made this generally challenging year very much more bearable and even positive! Obviously the...

Finally catching up with the blog, after an absence on retreat, and could hardly believe what you've been through Dave, and still kept your spirits...

A few short words, ‘hang in there ‘ and thinking of you every day with lots of love as always. Shonagh and Family xx

Dear David, We are the ones who should be thanking you for your amazing blogs! Lots of love from Ann Bell

Viewing it positively, as befits you, half of Britain is becoming obese and you're getting a free, as it were, gastric band! What's not to...

We don't always comment, David, but that's only because it's difficult to find the words to express our admiration for your courage in dealing with...

No wonder you were exhausted after all you had been through. You reminded me of the time, many years ago, when chronic fatigue first hit...

As ever, huge admiration for your fortitude. Good luck Dave. Thinking of you Libby R

Hi David what trauma just wish we could help you more and we live near thinking of you each day love from all the Family...

Dear David, Bertie Wooster often quoted snippets of Shakespeare (many that he picked up from Jeeves), one of his favorites being, "Sleep that knits up...

Hello David. Fully understand how the traumas of recent weeks have taken a toll on your energy, exacerbated by the difficulties of not getting sufficient...

Dave, you are amazing to even muster the energy to write this, sounding so calm and explaining it all to us so well. I’m not...

So very sorry to hear about the delay after all you've been through the last few days. Personally I think they should open up the...

Hope you are as comfortable as possible at home. We agree with Sue: you are an absolutely brilliant example to us all. Wishing you well,...

Pleased to hear you are home safe wish l live near so l could offer some help thinking of you everyday XXX

Hi, David, so sorry to hear that yet again you have to wait l hope it will be sorted soonxxx

Hope they agree to do it soon

I am thinking of you all the time and hoping things get better soon love always Barbara xxxxxx

Hope home is the haven it should be and you are getting the TLC you deserve. The Blog should be compulsory reading for all those...

David, how intensely frustrating for you - let's hope they come up with a date fast. In the meantime stay strong and sending you all...

You really couldn't make this up. So sorry you are having to go through all this trauma with no result at the end. Couldn't the...

I totally understand why you are so attached to this piece. On our travels David and I struggle, even in the remotest of places, to...

Sorry I am only just catching up on your blogs but Janet has said it so well that I have nothing to add save my...

Am so sorry that you will have to wait for the surgery. Meantime, keep getting the nutrition in somehow.....I hope you have some special people...

Well David, you must be glad to get back home though no doubt disappointed with the way things turned out. With so many friends sending...

I'm glad you are back at home. Thinking of you with much love, Bethany

Seriously hope they can schedule in a time for the PEG op to go ahead ASAP Dave, and that you are comfortable until then. You...

I'm sure the medics are recognising that you are pretty special in all ways! So glad that they, and you, have made the decision to...

bellum bellum bellum belli bello bello... thanks for another reminder of Dad on here! And go for the diazepam - could help your celeb fame...

Sending our love across London Dave. You are in our thoughts and prayers, and your strength and stoicism are incredible. Sleep well tonight xxxxxx

I am sending you my very best wishes, David. With much love from Jordan

Ach Dave. Thank you for sparing the energy to write this all out so clearly, as always. Heartily hoping for, erm, an appropriately shaped hole...

Dear David, As you know we send you all our love and lots of hugs. You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers.

What can anyone say David, this is your mountain to climb, except me and so many others are wishing we could share these decisions and...

Crikey, only you could be so special as you always are, thinking about you every day and wondering where you get your strength my friend....

Well, that must be the first thing to my knowledge that you haven’t had the stomach for!!😳 Seriously, so sorry to hear the news and...

Yes, but where are your lungs now? !!!!

Speechless - rare with me! Very best wishes from us all at Number 32. And David, you are a natural writer - you've discovered yet...

Oh dear David, almost unbelievable. Thankfully your humour shows through so really hoping the third attempt will be able to take place without further delay...

Dear David - devastated to hear news. Hope the next thing works. Lots of love, Carole x

As Nancy said, and as my choir can sing to you (and maybe make you smile in the midst of all your difficulties). https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=So2PfGq7JMA Big...

Dear David, Wow - what a time you're having. May God 'keep you in the palm of his hand' through all this. Love, Nancy

Hello David, Well I am almost speechless which does happen very often. Of course we send lots of love to you. You are in our...

Hi David I always knew that you were special, but hadn't realised that bits of you are in the wrong places. At least your brain...

All the very best David

Sending you best wishes from Adelaide in South Australia.

Think of you hope all goes well xxxx Barbara and Reg

All the best David.

Thinking of you David. Hope all goes well this time and that life will be more pleasant when you get home to yet another new...

Dear Chris Would you mind sharing the contact? I have also been searching for someone who could read the text. Amazing how you found one!...

Years ago I got Ann a Christmas present. We didn’t know what it was until we paid a lingering visit to the Pitt Rivers Museum...

Finger cross you are ok thinking of you xxx

I wouldn’t put it past you to change the narrative even at this late date. Trust & hope for a negative result from this excursion....

Hi Chances are that you are NOT positive. If there are no symptoms in a person of your age, then the probability of being positive...

I'm sure a glass of wine has some nutrition as well........make it special! Thinking of you every day, in my thoughts and prayers. Good luck...

Thank for the info how did you get on today xx

Another late Victorian poem, Crossing the Bar, was a favourite of my father's.

Now David! I know you have many admiring fans and you have held the title of President but don't you go driving about in a...

Dave, you give us, your readers, so much in your writing. Your wisdom, acceptance and spirit, make me , and I'm sure many others, so...

I recall something about the witch telling you to soak the crystal in brine sometimes, to recharge its powers. And maybe moonlight was involved too....

I hope all goes according to plan this time David. E & I will be thinking of you. Re Nancy’s point, I hope you get...

You're amazing! I so admire your courage and fortitude. When I was 8, I had pneumonia, and they tried to put a tube down my...

So pleased you have a date will be thinking of you and saying a prayer for you my love always Barbara

The NHS is pretty amazing, isn't it, especially when caring for those who most need it. Malc was always very impressed and am so glad...

Good luck on the 12th, Dave. Thinking of you. Caroline

David, all the very best for this next step. Thinking positive thoughts for you.

It's one of the poems I know off by heart, as did Mandela. One worth keeping in the brain, I think.

Lovely piece. Lovely epilogue... Viva l'aspidistra! Not forgetting the eagle too 🙂 PS - so glad that room encouraged your reading, and the comfort you...

Three cheers for 140 years!

I always said I'd read these Comments but wouldn't get involved in replying to them. On this occasion however, I think I must say something....

You will remember I'm sure that some time ago (20 years? 25?) you felt the aspidistra was getting a bit big and needed splitting. You...

I would rub the stone each day Thinking of you and our always in my prays

Happy cottage memories and of Kath T - but not the white witch! The poem is another gem in Other Men's Flowers, isn't it. Do...

Invictus- you are in good company with that poem.

Well David, given the instructions you received with that stone, I think I might just give it the occasional rub...

A powerful acknowledgement of Free Will! Many years ago my Cousin Dorothea Watkins in Virginia substituted 'Christ is' for 'I am' in the last two...

Best wishes and love Barbara and Reg XXX

Big Hug from up here in Yorkshire!

Everyone else has said it so well - you're a champion and an inspiration

After all the events of the last few days, I am cross and desperate so goodness knows how you feel, beyond the great bravery and...

Wow - poor you. And wow - you're still singing with Louis. As others have said, your equanimity is awesome (at least when not sedated,...

What a saga indeed, Dave. I'm so impressed with your equanimity. At least that's what comes across.. I'm sure there have been plenty of other...

David you are amazing facing everything with a smile ! Maybe a creaky smile right now but you are home and enjoying your lovely flat...

Crikey David, there was me blissfully thinking it would be easy peas. Hang in there and good luck and hugs

David, so sorry for everything that has happened over the past few days, but such a vivid account! Your humour and resilience really are a...

Pleased you are back home. Cannot imagine how I would cope with all that! Not too well I fear. One good nurse can make a...

Oh dear David, an experience you could have done without and obviously a reaction to the drug used rather than an sub-conscious aggression in your...

Dave, what a crazy rollercoaster!! As you say, so much has happened / not happened in this short week and you are still so jovial!...

So sorry to hear about the hitch David - hope it gets done soon. Having had quite a few camera down throat procedures I must...

Bad luck David - I had an attempt to send a camera down to my stomach once, and I just refused to allow it down...

Dave, you are totally amazing to still write the blog and keep us updated. We are so very sorry that it didn’t go ahead and...

Ditto all the previous comments my dear, and thinking of you every day. My knees are worn out with praying! Singing the "Irish Blessing" with...

Ffbbff (you know what I mean). Honestly you could not make this up. However turning a disaster into something humorous is a family trait which...

Hoping with all my heart that the op is successful and that you are able to sail through the readjustment phase. You cannot be in...

So sorry David to hear that your procedure did not take place yesterday. Do hope you will be kept in and the operation goes ahead...

It beats me how you manage to find anything smileable at in the whole process. You must have read the same Readers’ Digest as I...

Oh Dave, I'm so sorry. What a b!. Do hope it can be done this week and that you can still keep positive. Bless you,...

So sorry to hear the operation did not take place hope they can do it this week love as always Barbara xx

Thinking of you my love always xxx

Will be thinking of you and you are always in my prayers and ask all the family to help you xxx

Hear hear.

It's curious how such a brief encounter can make such a lasting impression, leaving us with a little mystery and a feeling of connectedness that's...

What a lovely story and beautiful bell. Thinking of you today and beyond and I hope all goes really well and you are in very...

Ditto to all of Janet’s above! What an amazing story and gift from him! I’ve long loved the sound and practice of similar (if less...

Love and prayers from self and Christopher. Can't wait for the wry Peace comments on the next stage of your journey,

It's a beautiful bell and another great story. Am glad you've still got the bell, I know that Malc was at that reunion and I...

All best wishes with your operation. Thinking of you often, and especially now. Hurry up and get back to blogging...love it.

I hope all goes well in the next few days David. Elizabeth and I will be thinking of you.

Since I found myself with some time (and sanitiser) on my hands I decided to see if I could find out any more. After a...

The description of the Smethwick house reminds me of the house in Listowel, Co Kerry, where my father grew up with his aunt (whose fiancee...

First comment from me. its in the wrong place but I was inspired by the overview. It relates to your entry about the move to...

PS - re the 114/144 address. Maybe scatty and/or dysnumeric Mr Whittlesey? In which case someone else later corrected the total?! Anyway, thanks for the...

Excellent observations Tim Holmes! I've just looked at the original again and agree with all your points. The 2's in the £23 2 0 line...

I have a new theory! Given the circumstances, it seems that the high price of £23 is rather unlikely. The more I look at the...

I'm not socially historic (nor historically social) but I'd go with: Ordered on March 11th 1935, Paid for (or final installment paid?) on 28th April...

That's lovely David bit of family history too and to my notes for my 2 great-nephews

Lovely story, David! I was thinking the same thing about the price of the accordion. It will have been a very expensive item in 1936....

I loved reading about these kammavaca, and knowing more about these beauties that I've previously admired without ever getting round to asking about! Have been...

A lovely story David. Elizabeth’s family in Ireland have several good Accordionists and Concertina players. Some very enjoyable impromptu concerts with the obligatory glass of...

It’s a lovely honour to hold this beautiful instrument, with its brilliant provenance! Another nugget I love is the little brown envelope, still uncrumpled from...

These puppets are extraordinary; we encountered a selection of them in a museum in Singapore (stopover on the way to Australia). We certainly didn't appreciate...

Dear David, The time has come to share confessions with you. We both know that drinking alcohol should never be done in Saudi Arabia. Today...

Goodness knows where I got them from but I had a couple of small posters for exhibitions at the Museum of Mankind on my wall...

Will be dropping off a bottle of experimental wine to go along with the lager next time I’m in town.

Good luck with the PEG and remember the silver lining I mentioned in my e-mail! BTW Paul sends his very best wishes.

Fortunately, my imprisonment lasted not very long due to your successful action. It is one of the multitude of memories in our nearly forty years...

So glad, again, you're doing this! Yet another fascinating post - thank you. Sounds a truly awesome book! Reminded me of being struck by obvious...

What a wonderful name you have! I had to look up the way your name was probably pronounced in the fifth millennium B.C., according to...

What a lovely picture! The simple things are usually best. (I remember one time I had some prints that I picked up somewhere. You said...

I am very aware of the courage it must have taken to agree to the PEG........I am sure the consultant gave you plenty of information,...

Thank you, I couldn't recall where these came from always loved them.

David, I hope that the mashrabiya didnt mark out your Cotswold cottage as a harem - but then on reflection, why not?

It looked great in the cottage! As did some other treasures you found on your travels x

Hi From the picture, it seems that the folios are not ordered. On the left-hand side of each folio you should find a Burmese word...

Three cheers for the Secret Diary. Today, after many years, Armbruster's Dongolese Nubian Grammar was re-discovered in my basement. The first version was assembled during...

**Now We Are Six!!

I thought again, when we visited you the other day, how very beautiful the Kammavaca is...I had no idea it was called this until now!...

David, this blog and your openness is a masterclass in how to make every day count and keep your friends and family on the journey...

Love the description of your Beirut stopover! Reminds me of the film 'Carry On Up The Khyber' where the embassy is being bombed while a...

This was the only book my father ever gave me, back in the late 60s, and it sits on my book shelf to this day....

David, you gave us a copy of this in 1985 -- Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. When I read your post I went immediately to the shelf...

Dave, you gave us this wonderful anthology twenty three years ago, after a holiday in Cornwall. You said then that you had three previous copies!...

Hear, hear! It was a very special hour - and Malc would be very proud of you! I've always been fascinated by all the contents...

Good idea; I look forward to it. I've developed a rule for "stuff" as I've moved several times and tried to downsize: if you don't...

Thanks Dave! It was such a pleasure for us all to see you the other day, and to hear yet more warm and funny stories...

M'Lud, We would love to be Scots as well. As Bells, we are descended from border Reivers and arch enemies of the Grahams. My cousin...

what a lovely article

Hello again...nice to hear from you

It's been a real privilege to follow you through this epic process - we all know far more about you than about almost anyone else!...

I'm so glad you will continue to post blog entries from time to time. This has been a wonderful blog, getting to know you better,...

I remember a wonderful performance (at a private party or concert??? can't remember which ) of "Putting on my Top Hat " (Fred Astaire) given...

We have so enjoyed your blog and will miss it and it was wonderful to find out what you have done with your life the...

No particularly quirky habits that I’m aware of at least - though do hope to grow in eccentricity. But your @ riff did remind me...

As usual, Dave, your observations are spot-on. When I worked with people who had had an acquired brain injury, it was clear that some medics,...

This is brilliant! Generously he shared out his whisky and we all had a tot or two before he landed us in Bahrein. Love It!...

Thank you so very much, Dave. The blog has been an amazing experience to follow-fascinating topics-some bringing back brilliant memories for me of The Sudan-...

Great! Loud and clear!

A truly remarkable life, lived to the utmost in every respect. It has been a most interesting read and I am full of awe at...

A truly remarkable life and philosophy of a truly remarkable and inspirational man x

Dear David, Somehow you share with your Uncle Jack and your father an inclination to perform music. At the Lido in Saudi Arabia you demonstrated...

Spooky indeed David!! A couple of years ago I had a severe vertigo attack, followed shortly after by a milder one. We are lucky in...

I'll vote to become subject to the Queen again if you'll promise not to accept Donald Trump!

If Cummings is given his head it will do enormous damage to our democratic systems in my view. And it raises a bigger question of...

Wow! What family history. Thank you for sharing, as always. Apart from anything else, this has re-inspired me about social housing.. And well said, Mike...

Who are you? Well, maybe some of your friends and readers can add a few thoughts at this time. Here’s a start. You are the...

That is absolutely hilarious! Straight out of a 'Faulty Towers' sketch! I have a little story of my own which might amuse. It was one...

When we were in Suakin in Dec 1969 I was awoken by strange noises...the death throes of a goat hung up by its hind feet...

This takes me right back to my experience many years ago in the public service- local Government as it happens. Strong managers in their units...

David, I'm sure I remember you with a belly dancer in a night club in Tarsus (where St Paul came from) in the summer of...

Nancy One of the most memorable moments of a 6 wee excursion from Melbourne to London was a very quiet hour sitting in the lobby...

Night clubs and discos are indeed dreadful, and I've only been briefly in one or two. They combine ideally two things I loathe - noise...

Dear David, Like yourself, I investigated the Gordon Night Club briefly in the 1970s. It was celebrated as the last place in Khartoum still bearing...

David Im reminded as must be many others by the promise of successive new administrations to 'cut red tape'.... Cant match your business experience but...

David I hadnt realised your proximity to Tonga. You must know the story: at a party, ,someone asked Noel Coward the identity of the small...

We used to think of you every time we used a car wash! It was one of your best stories ever and Malc used to...

Just caught up after 10 or 12 days, David - amazing stuff. Your mention of the Garden House Hotel reminds me of a rare meal...

As a librarian and historian, volunteering now at the local Historical Society library, I groaned when you talked of all the company papers just lying...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTcQ2kHDsBw

Dear Dave, you are the bravest of men. Thank you for sharing when you are facing such huge difficulties. Thank you for keeping us all...

Hello Dave. Beautiful stuff re food! Naturally reminded me of times in China when I was solemnly presented chicken feet to nibble by 4 year...

In 1970 I had been planning to go to the Sudan via Cairo when Gamal Abdel Nasser died suddenly. Everybody said it would be too...

Good you keep on keeping on David. Enjoying your musings and amusings. Send this for a beautiful morning on your roof garden. Mike https://www.facebook.com/Concertgebouw/videos/453129905481636/

I made it to Ubud in 98 - by that time they had trained the monkeys to pinch sunglasses off tourists and disappear high into...

I remember the monkey forest in Ubud. Buying the usual bag of peanuts, I expected to throw them to the monkeys. But the "sacred" monkeys...

On the general subject of 'rights' in SA, I was in a nice large open plan properly air conditioned office in Riyadh when a new,...

“...yet.” Fixed the end of the blog...

Well! I’ve never hear him called “Dave” before! But I heartily concur with all you say Janet. Dave/David is a truly lovely man and I...

Janet, these 50 years of the greatest of friendships have been a true gift. Malcolm was my best friend, and through him you and the...

I am fascinated, awed, moved, amused by this remarkable man and his telling of some chapters of his very varied life. What a life! Some...