An evening out with my godfather Herry

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Even whilst very young I was aware that Herry was somehow different, unique.  He expanded my cultural horizons from early on, giving me books about interesting, impressive women, and other presents were often exotic and unusual.  Once, he even adopted a duck for me at a wildfowl centre.  Best of all, he gifted me a goddaughter when I was just thirteen years-old.  And around the same time, he treated me to a night out in London that I’ll never forget, and which exemplifies all that was so exceptional about him.


I don’t remember the restaurant, but it was fancier than anywhere this young country bumpkin had ever been, and the food was superb.  After dinner we got in Herry’s car - again, I forget, but it was very smart and there was definitely leather.  He drove us down Regent Street to look at the Christmas lights as the stereo played Joan Armatrading’s ‘Love & Affection’.  I thought it was the coolest thing I’d ever heard and, to this day, it’s still one of my favourite songs.


Next, to my astonishment and utter delight, we proceeded to drive straight through and under Marble Arch.  Herry assured me it wasn’t illegal, just that no one else much knew it was allowed.  It all felt incredibly exciting and sophisticated; like going through a portal to a magical new world.


Then, suddenly, we were headed south to Waterloo.  Herry explained en route that it had been his office Christmas party that evening and the car boot was full of leftover canapés and sandwiches.  When we arrived at Cardboard City, out we got, in our fancy duds, and handed out party food to the homeless.  My tiny, sheltered mind was now well and truly blown.


That night remains one of the best nights out I’ve ever had.  And it so perfectly encapsulates Herry.  Fine dining (of course); a bit of sparkle and magic; music (always music); something a bit naughty and fun; and, above all, a beautiful, thoughtful gesture of goodwill.


He was a man of infinite variety; philosopher, philanthropist, party animal; he travelled the world, but was British to his core; highly sophisticated, but with the common touch; deeply spiritual, yet profoundly silly and, to the last, one of the most generous souls any of us will ever know.


By Nichola F Martin



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