John Nye, client, raconteur, occasional Bespoke employee, and friend died on 23 May, in Burgundy, where he had retired with his wife, Sheila, twenty years ago.

John's career encompassed the worlds of the Royal Navy, advertising, events and public relations before moving into media and print. He worked for Coca-Cola, the Miss World Pageant, Come Dancing and Formula 1 racing before joining Monotype and later Xenotron. We were very lucky to have him with us at Bespoke in the early 90s.

John was well-known in graphic arts circles as a unique individual of professionalism combined with nearly undisciplined good humour. John's forte was in organising exhibition stands and all aspects leading up to exhibitions. In the run up to IPEX 1993, John worked with Bespoke and handled the worldwide advertising placement and preparation of branded press gifts with patience, tact and skill. He caused great hilarity in our neighbourhood by holding up Olympic style judging scores in our doorway giving his evaluation of the quality of car parking outside our office.

Retired industry consultant Andy Tribute spoke for many when he commented, "John was perhaps the best exhibition manager I have ever come across."

His combination of anarchic humour, careful work and loyalty is rare, and all who knew John will miss each of those qualities.

Many friends from his days at Monotype and later Xenotron have posted recollections and tributes on alumni sites that provide a snapshot of how John is remembered - with laughter and affection.