Dear HalSail user,
It is with profound regret that I have to inform you of the sad death of Peter Hopford - the founder and software author of HalSail. Peter died earlier this week after a period of ill health aged 79. He will be missed by many in the sailing community for his intelligence, kindness and not least his creation of HalSail over a period of 20 years starting with a desktop based Results Service.
I should like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the new owner of HalSail having worked with Peter over the last 12 months or so on an extended handover. I have done so knowing I have big shoes to fill, but nevertheless have determination to see Peter's legacy flourish and continue. I will be maintaining the software, providing support and continuing to develop HalSail - so it's business pretty much as usual.
Peter was very positive in life and wouldn't want us to dwell on his departing so much as enjoying our sailing and using his software. I shall be raising a glass to Peter this weekend, a brilliant man, a likeable man and a good friend - I hope you can join me whether you knew him personally or appreciate his contribution to sailing.
As Peter would often sign off,
Happy Sailing!
Phil Ashworth
HalSail Ltd.
