I was just thinking of Alun today and how much I was influenced by his teachings when I became a history undergrate at Sussex University in 1976, I relaise now that his was when he first began teaching at Sussex and for me the History of the Working class ( EP Thompson) and the wonderful semiars he gave and how he gave meaning to life in the trenches during the first world war, Eye Deep in Hell was a book he recommeded and I bought, it is on my shelf still. I loved to see him on television for his programmes about Rural Labourers, so glad he achieved that recogniton for all his work in academic circles and recognition in the media. I am sad to hear today that he is no longer with us and send my symapthy and condolencews to his family. I had hoped to congratulate him today on his programmes and thank him for the most influential and long lasting teaching I received from him at Sussex, it has shaped my life and thinking. I remember how one day at the end of my History degree, when I was 21 and still lacking in confidence, he offered me a drink in Falmer bar and being slightly shy and awkward I joined him and his friend and he said you don't need to sit with us! He knew I was feeling awkward and obliged! Thanks Alun, I am sorry you are not here to thank personally for the social history that I learnt from you in that wonderful time at Sussex University. My sympathy and thoughts to your family. Rosemary Hobday CCS Sussex University History 1976 - 1979, MSW 1979 - 1981