Malcolm wasn't the only person to make the trip from the North Island - we ran into Donn, Lynn and Jamie Anderson at the airport along with NZCC's Allan Walton - Greeta Hulme, Amanda McLaren, Ray Stone, Jim Palmer - the problem when you start making a list is the fear of forgetting someone.

Tony Haycock and Terry Marshall arrived 'with Eoin' in a Bugatti and Eoin's wife Sandra brought his ashes into the pub to the sound of the Crusader's theme song that got everyone on their feet. Peter aka Grant set the tone and then we had eulogies and tributes from Min and Alice Sargison (widow and daughter of the legendary photographer Euan), Jamie and Donn Anderson, and Brent Esler.

Sandra had a wonderful tribute and eulogies from Wally Willmott, Nigel Roebuck, Maurice Hamilton, David Tremayne, and Howden Ganley were read - plus also from the UK Motoring Writers Guild. And then to conclude - in accordance with ESY's express wishes - a final word from Chris Amon before cranking up Neil Diamond with 'Red, red wine...'

Eoin's ashes will be spread at Ruapuna (he has identified an exact spot) in the summer.