He was my friend, and fellow band member. I saw him only last week. We all came back to my house after the last gig of the 'Scotland's People" run, and he was his usual big hearted self.
Got upset when I found his gig clothes that I'd only just washed, on my chair.
We were booked into the studio at the end of the month to work on our new album. Lionel was so excited about the new band, and we were all enjoying playing together. I just can't believe he's gone.

Lionel was one of Scotland's great characters and greatest ever reciters of Scot's verse, as well as being a singer songwriter. He was due to perform "Tam O Shanter" at The Howff Club, at the Globe Inn, Dumfries, this Hallowe'en. Sadly they'll not get to hear him do this. I never got tired of hearing Lionel's "Tam", and those of us who saw him do this, were truly blessed to have seen something so unique and special.
Fortunately, we made a couple of videos of Lionel doing this, earlier this year.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm1AYUXyQBU

His own "Craw" was also amazing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQNSndjshRU

"His uncomb'd hoary locks, wild-staring, thatched
A head for thought profound and clear unmatch'd;
Yet tho' his caustic wit was biting rude,
His heart was warm, benevolent and good."
Robert Burns
From: 'The Poet's Progress' 1788

Some great photos of Lionel, most of them taken by his friend, Steve Niblock.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=23733&id=1777171401&ref=mf