Forty years ago, after introductions at Cliffe Veterinary Practice in Lewes - I was an aspiring veterinary student seeing practise - Richard Rees, senior partner, assigned me to David.   The latter's first comment was "you must be mad !"  After that, though, we got on fine and I enjoyed David's easy manner and professionalism when meeting clients and examining their animals.   I watched with interest and awe, but enjoyed it all.  Later, as I became familiar with the routine, we talked more widely and I learnt of David's love and knowledge of orchids, in Europe and in Asia.   He told me of his travels, showed me pictures and told me tales, including once when he helped deliver a yak calf in Sikkim !   All fascinating stuff.