Sir, – The death of Edmund Van Esbeck will bring back fond memories for readers of his wonderful post-international match reports in this newspaper.For me, the standout remains his report from Ireland’s historic victory on a sunny Sunday in Paris in March 2000. Television footage could not match the vivid imagery Ned conjured in his piece, “Oh what a special day in Paris!” Having chronicled 28 consecutive Irish defeats in Paris, his pure excitement when David Humphreys kicked the winning penalty leapt off the page. It was a fantastic report that beautifully heralded the dawn of a new era for Irish rugby.Rest in peace, Ned. Your articles will be treasured and reread for generations. – Yours, etc,NOEL CRIMIN,Sutton,Dublin 13.Sir, – While Edmund Van Esbeck’s love of rugby was matched by his gift in writing about the sport for so many years, many Irish Times readers may well be unaware how much he enjoyed watching English Premier League football. A lifelong Arsenal fan, Ned named his house Highbury in honour of the Gunners. May he rest in peace. – Yours, etc,MICHAEL CULLEN,Sandycove,Co Dublin.