It’s sad to hear of the death of Richard Shephard MBE (Minster prayers for composer, February 22).

I first bumped into Richard as we walked to collect our newspapers on a morning. After that we often used to have a chat as we walked to the paper shop. He was a very pleasant, genuine man, proud of his connection to York and in particular to the Minster. He spoke of my cousin Paul, a stone mason, and his good work on the Minster.

He took a genuine interest in people and until his long illness I often used to see him cycling to the Minster. He was always good for a chat and always acknowledged me.

RIP Richard, a ‘true gentleman’.

DM Deamer, Penleys Grove Street, York