Sir, It was with great regret that we read of Mr. Chappel's untimely death in your 'paper. In the 16 years we have known Nigel, his shop had been a regular haunt of the local 'café society' and gossipers generally. All things were discussed, from the state of the local roads to the meaning of life and of his plans for retirement in France. The impromptu discussions were as varied as his acquaintances and shop contents. To those who knew him, and even those who did not, Nigel was a generous man, who gave his time to those who needed to chat, supplied endless cups of good coffee and biscuits and a strong shoulder when needed. He supported many local business groups and, when asked, was readily available for comments and experienced advice. He supported the National Muscular Dystrophy charity, due to the sad death of his son Christopher from this disease, and many other equally worthy causes. In the 27 years that he ran 'The Dainty' he had befriended and encouraged many local youngsters by employing them in the summer months in his establishment. They learned customer relations, stock control, cleaning techniques, finances and all qualified in the tea and coffee making art before leaving to go on to their chosen vocations in life. They will all have benefited greatly from the experience and we enjoyed meeting them and watching them mature over the months and for a few, years. All those who knew Nigel have been enriched by the experience, none are prouder to have been called friend by him and no one will be poorer for knowing him. Few can truly say that about themselves. We will miss him greatly, but we are glad to have known him and happy that he at least fulfilled his lifetime dream of moving to France. "Au revoir" dear friend.
Michael and Peggy Hunt,
Deerbolt, Sageston.