Such a shock to find this thread. It feels as though we've lost a friend that we thought would always be there. Especially as he had started posting on Mudcat again after his earlier hospitalisation.

It is said that no-one is indispensible - I disagree. In terms of academic knowledge and research in folk song, I can't imagine anyone ever being of such help to so many people. Never getting embroiled in the arguments, sorry, heated discussions that arose in so many threads, but always the voice of calm reason and fact, Malcolm seemed to me to be the most valuable resource any of us could wish for. It saddens me that his work on the 'Marrow Bones' series can't be completed - or will have to be completed by other lesser mortals.

If we feel the loss so much, how much harder must it be for his family and close friends. I hope that the knowledge of the high regard in which he was held will help them in their loss.

Thank you, Malcolm. Rest in peace.

Barbara