I am Nick’s Danish cousin a few years older than him. During the 1960’s I used to see Nick when I came over from Denmark to visit the family. He was then a boy – a boy of many interests – geography, history, geology, biology, but not sports. During the visits I was introduced to the Danish and the Russian sides in the family, and the way they looked upon life a bit different from my homely circles. Nick, his sister and brother made me learn to speak English – and thank you for that. I was curious, so I often had a look in their many books on their favorite topics.
Later in life we met again and exchanged experiences. We still shared the same interests and I found out that Nick had gathered an enormous knowledge about so many subjects. He also had done research in our family and had made a map of our family tree. Most interesting to me as he had found out that one ancient ancestor came from Scotland to Denmark.
Later Nick lived in Brighton. We visited him there and he showed us around. During that period he spent a lot of time campaigning in politics.
Not everything in life went his way – and he moved to Lechlade. We met him there and he was still busy campaigning but now very intensively promoting food and beer from local producers. He was very enthusiastic about it and we were impressed by his efforts. We even discussed the possibility of promoting the local products in Denmark.
He also took us around sharing his historical knowledge about the places we visited – Lechlade, the Roman Villa, Cirencester, Bradford on Avon, and Avebury – in a very inspiring way. We were sure to come back some day to learn more about the Cotswolds.
And now it is too late – it will not be the same without his company and bright spirits. A great personality has left us and we shall have to continue on our own. May he rest in peace.
I am very touched to read all the thoughts and stories from the various people having known him. Thank you for giving me that insight in his lifeline.