Peter Gray - a personal tribute from a colleague

I worked with Peter for eight years and during that time I learned a great deal from a man who had an abundance of drive and enthusiasm. I had been warned he had quite a bark and that it was often heard, which was very true. He could be forthright about his views as many of us probably know from having been at the receiving end or overhearing from a distance. His bark was tempered though by an ability to draw people together socially and there were never any hard feelings, when the argument was over it was down to the pub or off to France or just having a cup of coffee. Whenever we had a major shutdown in the computer hall he was always there at three in the morning giving his support and encouragement never asking others to do anything he wouldn’t do himself. It sometimes felt as if there was a blonde-haired terrier rushing round at everyone’s heels asking how soon we’d be finished. But it was asked in good humour and with the intention of inspiring people to do their best, which was all he ever asked for. Not only was Pete a superb man to work for he was also a very good friend to many, and to me in particular. At a time in my life when I needed lots of support Pete was there for me and that cemented a friendship I will always cherish. Kahlil Gibran talks about friendship in his book ‘The Prophet’ in which he says: