Congratulations to Sir Patrick Stewart, knighted today. He used the occasion to give credit to the English teacher who opened his eyes to literature and first encouraged him to perform.

It’s no surprise; many a career in the arts can be traced back to the influence of a charismatic and inspiring figure in the classroom.

So Roy Bateman, if there’s any slim chance you’re reading this – thanks, and if you’ll tell me where to send it I really will return the copy of Doctor Faustus that you lent me.