I was one of the very fortunate people whose path crossed with Richard's
In the summer of 1990 my room was selected to be the "seat" of a new summer vacation student; one "Richard Ferris". I had absolutely no idea what to expect other than to be told that Richard was studying at Brasenose College. Well, in walked this confident, and pretty determined albeit a little nervous, student who sat in a corner seat behind which, I recall, there was a map of the world. I specifically recall that on each day he brought with him a large book. It wasn't a law book.
My PA and the other "second floor" secretaries - all Essex girls to the core - thought they would help Richard by "sorting him out" as he was a bit shy. The truth was soon apparent that Richard was an utter delight and pleasure to have around. The "second floor" girls took Richard to their hearts and although there was much mickey taking from them Richard took it well and gave a good as he got. Richard earned trust and affection.
It was also pretty well obvious that Richard was bright and a hard worker. He worked on cases but what stood out was not so much the legal discussions but the wider world discussions. 1990 was a pretty big year in the Middle East and we spent much time talking about how we would both sort out the issues there. In the end I'm not sure how much actual work we did but he contributed in no small way to a case which eventually went to a Court of Appeal success. Yes, he certainly stood out and earned the popularity amongst all on the "second floor".
Of course, when you share a room with someone like Richard you share your thoughts and secrets. He became a sort of genuine room mate. I learned about Brona and Richard learned from me of a doomed summer relationship I was trying to save. The girl worked in Borough Market. My great idea, discussed with Richard, was to send a large bunch of flowers to this girl in the hope that my affections would be returned. Richard, following detailed discussions, was not optimistic but volunteered to take the flowers round and deliver them himself. Later, having delivered the flowers, he returned to my room, shook his head gently, and mouthed the words "no chance". He was bang on with that analysis.
When Richard's vacation period was about to end, I was asked what I thought. I had no hesitation in recommending Richard for a training contract and was delighted he accepted. I had little doubt about his legal capability and no doubt about his room mate qualities!
When he joined HFW as a trainee and throughout his years there we would pass each other occasionally and ask after each other. When he decided to leave HFW he came to me personally and told me of his decision. I was very touched. It was the mark of someone who was loyal and trusted and who valued colleagues and friendships and I like to think he was giving back something he felt was given to him. Yet, nothing was given to Richard. All the affection, loyalty and friendships are ones he earned by his qualities and his relationships built up with others.
Richard was one of life's good guys and the world is a lesser place without him.