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So many memories, but there are a few that stick out. Anytime we were in a meeting together and there was a crazy idea brought up - we would always share a knowing look and a smirk. One time I was sitting outside his office waiting for a meeting I had in another room that was overrunning. He saw me and made space in his office so I could sit in comfort while I waited - so indicative of his nature, always willing to help someone in need. He was also a confidante that really helped me through some difficult moments, he always made himself available and fought my corner. But one of my fondest memories is when the Covid crisis was beginning, a Major Incident Team was formed, that I minuted. We had a WhatsApp group to keep us all in the loop while we started to WFH. The last text received from Tony was of a sleeping unicorn emoji which he sent accidentally - but it was just what I needed at that time. That was Tony, wittingly and unwittingly being there to support me.
I first met Tony when he joined the HR Team in the Social Services Department at Hammersmith and Fulham in 1992/93. You won't be surprised to know that Tony became a very popular member of our team and he excelled in his job. He had a natural skill to build good relationships within our organisation at all levels and we were sad to lose him to the National Theatre in 1999. Tony and I became firm friends during his years at Hammersmith and Fulham and that friendship continued ever since. Indeed, a group of us ex-colleagues from Hammersmith and Fulham kept in contact and we would meet at least once a year. This particular gathering being an annual event known as Christmas Lunch. Tony was an integral part of that gathering. We all adored Tony's fun company and would all look forward to having an annual catch up. Unfortunately, we were unable to meet last year but we were currently in the process of arranging this year's festivities when the tragic news was announced. All of us are equally as stunned as saddened. It is going to be very strange not to have Tony with us this year. My heart and thoughts are with his wife Sarah, his son Jamie and all members of his family. Tony was a wonderful human being and will be deeply missed.......God bless us, God bless us one and all
I had the good fortune to be Tony’s NT neighbour for three years when the Publishing department (for which I used to work) was moved to the office beside his. Although I knew him a little before then, to begin with I still had a vague idea that being next to the Director of HR would mean having to be extra quiet and well behaved. I needn’t have worried, of course - Tony was the kindest, the funniest, and the most chilled out colleague you could hope to have. He projected a sense of calm capability that immediately made you feel relaxed, whatever minor theatrical crisis might be occurring at that moment. And despite being incredibly busy, he somehow always had time for anyone who needed him. On one occasion that person was me - I went to him to discuss something that had upset me. Over the course of half an hour he listened, listened some more, and then gave me some very good advice. I left his office feeling inestimably better. I know that countless people who worked with him have had the same experience. In both big and small ways, Tony took the time to make other people’s day better. What an absolutely brilliant guy.
Tony was one of my favourite colleagues in my 42 years at the NT. Visits to his office, whatever the trickiness of the subject to be discussed, were always a pleasure and his kindness, wisdom and sense of humour profoundly helpful. He appeared genuinely interested in what everyone did, which can't have been easy given the enormous breadth of the enterprise. We often seemed to coincide in the lift on arrival at the NT, when he would often be weighed down by a bag of kit for his football team. I also remember his delight in the birth of his son and subsequent pride in his progress. Tony was a real dude and will be hugely missed.
I first met Tony on his very first day at the NT when collecting his staff card and being shown around the NT. Over the years Tony would always make time if I needed advice about anything and would alway ( if time allowed) stop outside Stage Door for a chat , would almost always have the head slightly tilted and a smile . Tony worked so hard to get the HR department where it is today and will be greatly missed
I first met Tony when he started at the NT as one of the department's he was assigned to was the then Catering Department, of which I was the admin manager for. We learnt from and supported each other with how to manage the HR issues that we faced and there were many interesting and challenging situations that we dealt with for sure! Both of our jobs changed over the years yet we still worked together and I was fortunate to be able to learn so much more from Tony. His calmness, diplomacy, expert knowledge and kindness were second to none, and I will always be grateful to him for the advice and support he gave me over the years. They say no-one is irreplaceable but I would question that with regards to Tony as he will certainly be a hard act to follow! I will always remember Tony fondly and I will miss him immensely and I want to thank him for believing in me. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family, his friends and to his colleagues. All of you and Tony are in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace Tony, you will always be remembered xx
I will always remember Tony for his kind nature. He was always willing to help or be an ear to listen, even when he was insanely busy! From daily conversations in the lift about what might be for lunch in the Blue Room to longer meetings about my Apprenticeship and career, Tony always took the time to care and pay attention. He will always be a part of the National Theatre for me, and I will never forget his kindness.
Tony was the perfect colleague in every respect: he exuded consideration, respect, competence and empathy. His natural propensity for understatement was a fine quality which shone as a beacon to everyone and chimed well alongside his dry humour. What an example to us all - one of the world's beautiful people.
Alistair Owen
Alistair Owen
Tony gave me my first proper job. It was January 2009 and I'd been temping for over a decade, most recently as HR Assistant under his then-deputy Michael Carling, and Tony began my interview for the permanent role with the wonderful line, "Let me start by saying: you've got the job." I was a big fan from then on. We stayed in touch when I left the National after four memorable years, and he was still giving me HR help and advice just three months ago, and I owed him more than one thank you pint in the NT bar. It doesn't surprise me that Tony didn't share news of his illness widely - the enigmatic side of his personality was one of the things which made his company so enjoyable - but it makes his sudden passing all the more shocking and saddening. His death is a great loss, and he will be much missed.
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