MY family and I were saddened by the death of actor Richard Griffiths (Echo, Mar 30).

In his teens Griff, as he was known, was on his first drama course under Ken Parkin at Stockton/Billingham Technical College.

He became friendly with my family and visited our home. I have photos of him “play acting” in our front garden.

Then came his rise to stage and screen stardom.

Later, my younger son and my wife visited Edinburgh festival to support him in a Fringe event.

In later years we met him at an Olivier Awards night when he was with the Royal Shakespeare Company and when he was appearing at the Old Vic in London.

It is very sad, but thank God for lovely memories.

Les Jobson, Richmond.