I think I first met Nick at a Cambridge alumni gathering - we were both at Emmanuel College, though he was 3 - 4 years ahead of me. We kept in touch and got to know each other better - normally over a decent lunch, but we did discuss housing matters and I was another of the directors of CHIP (the Centre for Housing Investment Policy) which Nick established and Roger refers to in his tribute above.

One of my favourite memories is Nick inviting me to the London International Wine Festival (at Excel in those days). I say invited, Nick just suggested that I register on line as a Consultant to the Inndependent Pub Co. (I think that was a real company that he was involved with). On the day 3 or 4 of us met in a bar near Tower Hill then made our way to Excel. No problem in getting in, and the Festival consisted of many stands, run by growers, producers and distributors - all happy to dispense samples, so we circulated merrily. 

Sporting an Inndependent Pub Company badge, the only minor challenge I faced was a stallholder - just pouring me another glass - who asked about the Company and our strategy. I explained that we'd only just set the company up, working on the first acquisitions, but we were looking to buy groups of 3 or 4 pubs in order to grow quickly to a portfolio of a dozen or so; with a strong emphasis on food sales and a decent wine list. He seemed happy enough with this, and when our little group moved on a few mins later I outlined the strategy to Nick who felt it was very plausible!

After a good circuit of the Wine Fair, I recall we returned to Central London for another couple of drinks (maybe even food - can't recall!) to round off a very convivial day in excellent company!

Nick was a great character and a lovely bloke - he will be sadly missed, I still meet up occasionally with another couple of the CHIP team, and when we are allowed to get together again we will certainly lift a few glasses to his memory ................ Ian Mashiter