Linda and I were deeply saddened and shocked to hear of the death of Jacqui Walker, the long term partner of Mudcatter Richard Bridge.
Richard has sent the following e-mails.

Sun, 11 May 2003 15:53:51 +0100

Jacqui is in intensive care at Medway hospital and the prognosis is not good. It is likely to be some days before there is any change for better or worse.


Mon, 12 May 2003 08:09:28 +0100

I am sorry to tell you that Jacqui died at 6 pm yesterday.
Those of you who are folkies, there is likely to be a folk-wake (sad songs, and black clothes are banned at Jacqui's request).

I first met Jacqui and Richard many years ago, there was then quite an interval before Linda and I got to know them again, a couple of years ago.

Jacqui and Richard used to organise Hazlitt Folk in Maidstone, and were also involved with a regular session at "The Canopus" near Rochester. Although we unfortunately missed it, we've heard great reviews of the session which they hosted at the Rochester "Sweeps" Festival only a couple of weeks ago. Jacqui and Richard were quite a formidable vocal duo, with Jacqui playing both guitar and recorder.

Jacqui was obviously also a great support to Richard in his campaigns against both the new PEL laws and also the airport planned for the Isle of Grain, where they lived.

Linda and I send our deepest sympathies to Richard and the family, Jacqui will be sadly missed by everyone who knew her.