I remember quite vividly the first time I ever met Eric. It was in the East Stand Reception at the Stoop. A few minutes earlier someone had reminded me of an embarrassing mishap that I'd suffered at the Cabbage Patch pub a week earlier when a bit . . . erm . . . well, let's just say ‘worse for wear'. I had forgotten all about said incident (probably on purpose) but was even more mortified that Eric and Colleen - Emma's parents! - had heard this story. I mean, what sort of first impression would that make? They, of course, found the whole thing hilarious, and that was when Eric gave me some advice that I still refer back to when necessary: "if no-one saw you and you can't remember it, it didn't happen!" I knew from that moment that I would like him and even now, if ever I do something daft, which others see fit to remind me about, I just think of Eric, feign ignorance and tell them they have no proof!
Fortunately, my over-indulgence in the Patch in March 2002 didn't count against me with Eric and Colleen. I was lucky enough to be welcomed into their home a number of times - including surprising Eric on his 70th birthday - and spent many happy times with Eric and Colleen at the Stoop and at other Quins-inspired events. He was a lovely man who will be greatly missed, especially by those closest to him. I'm very glad that I was lucky enough to know him.