Shaun Loader former Royal Marine, RIP.

Shaun Loader, former Bootneck. Son of Manx. RIP

My sincerest apologies to the family for not getting over.

He and I first became friends on our way to join 42 Commando in Borneo. We did what all young men do in a strange town of Kuching, Sarawak's capital, one of the most liveable and people-friendly cities in the region.

He was a tidy centre forward with an ability to score goals. His sense of direction and ducklike ability were somewhat lacking, especially when walking across the Exe. When he is looking down I hope he recalls that it is a river.

Farewell.