I too knew this grand bloke well, from visits to the North East. He once turned up when I was singing at a club in Oxford. I believe he was taking a course at Ruskin, but it was a surprise for me to see him so far from Birtley, where I saw him most often. I will remember him as a good singer, joker, and companion, and will miss him, as I will also miss Maggie Cruickshank, another dear, long-held friend from the folk scene in Scotland. Gradually people whom I have known for years as a result of being among the folkies are passing away, reminding me how lucky I have been to move in their orbit. The roster of familiar names in the 'In Memorian' thread brings me sadness, but also the consolation of memories of good times spent in their company.Perhaps,as I approach my eightieth year, it may not be too long before I rejoin my old friends, but in the Meantime whenever I sing I'll dedicate a chorus to all of them. ROY.