I was the mechanical services consultant on a new development in Seymour Street W1 when I attended what I believed to be a regular meeting at the client's office. Suddenly, Giris blew in like a whirlwind and announced that he intended to purchase the scheme. He then offered to settle any invoices that the client still owed me, provided I would continue in my role, but now on behalf of Sager. I needed the money and the rest is history. The year was 1995. 

I am now able to indulge myself with fond memories from those early days of being driven around London in Giris's blue Rolls Royce. However, back then I was actually scared stiff as he raced through crowded streets, squeezing through gaps that would have been tight for a mini, let alone a Rolls. Mind you, it was probably safer to be in the back seat than a pedestrian trying to cross the road ahead.

Like so many others, I found that the frequent pain of having Giris as a client was overwhelmingly surpassed by the joy of having him as a friend. He was delighted when he discovered that my own garden was laid out in the Japanese style that he loved so much and I am in no doubt that in future, I will feel his presence out there from time to time.

Rest in peace.

Stuart