Much like most of Richard & Rachael friends, most of our teenage years were spent in and around the Shepherd household.

David and Girda's hospitality was legendary (Well mostly Girda's)

If Girda answered the door you were greeted in the traditional Swiss way with about 20 kisses, a HELLO DARLING, and a few more kisses for good measure.

If David answered the door, the standard greeting in a Welsh accent was "What do you want!" followed by a big sigh.

We loved winding Dave up, (usually with Girda's help). Eating his best food, drinking his beer, and generally being annoying.

Although he played the villain, I think he secretly liked us being there, even after we'd been to the pub?

I will always treasure the memories of our time spent in Meavy Close, and I will always be grateful to David & Girda for the way they looked after us, no matter how annoying we were.

Love you Dave.

God Bless & see you on the other side for a pint of Brains and a cigar!

Paul Cartwright