In 1995, Julian visited our hamlet of Clapton and the neighbouring village of Chilcompton to explore 'where his ancestors came from'. Historically from 1600, the Poynting Family had lived in this area for at least two hundred years. Since 1995, I had a fairly regular correspondence with Julian, learning about his own interesting career and the remarkable history of his distinguished ancestors. This contact was valuable for the study of our local history. In recent years, my wife and I visited him twice in Barnstaple. Julian was a very generous-spirited, civilised and friendly individual. We will miss him.
David Clement John Maidment
27/01/2024
