Heard the sad news yesterday of Stuart's passing on. I was a friend of his since we were 10 years old although I have lived away from Brierfield since 1976. We played together from 1970 to 1976 as The Dalesmen with Big Frank (Barney) and Phil Wilson and later with Dennis Warhurst in Grimalkin. Stu was so very passionate about his music and played from his heart.

He was a man with a really big heart and as honest, sensitive and straight spoken a man that ever was. He brightened up some dark moments of my life with his great sense of humour and his cheery grin.

you have left a deep void in my world Stu - who knows - we may meet up..........

Sleep well old friend.