Hugh Hudson was the complete creative spirit. Awards and praise from fellow professionals testified to his skills as the genius generating outstanding TV ads, documentaries and feature films. His party political broadcast for Labour in the 1987 general election is rightly recognised, even by foes, to be the best ever. That is how I came to know him, and years of valued friendship followed.
He was a remarkable mixture of sensitivity and toughness whose mild demeanour understated his driving sense of progressive purpose. He had no snobbery or affectation, and was a delightful companion with piercing insights guided by his instinct for justice and his twinkling humour.
Hugh was devoted to his friends, especially in testing times, and, above all, to Maryam, his beloved wife. Countless people who admired his work and cherished his comradeship will grieve with her.