Brian Rathmill, inventor of the Pub Prop and all round Good Guy passed away in the early hours of Wednesday 11th June 2003.

Brian was a regular at the Open Door Folk Club in Failsworth, Manchester, where his fine voice was heard leading many a lusty chorus song. He never had a bad word to say about anyone, and was one of the most optimistic people I have ever met.

It is only a month since we were celebrating his 65th birthday at the club, and he was eagerly looking forward to all the things he could do in his retirement. Two weeks later he was rushed into hospital with suspected pancreitis, from which he later died. He had been sent home to await an operation for removal of his gall bladder, but the pancreitis to a turn for the worse.

His invention, the 'Pub Prop', a device to support guitars, etc., when leaning against a pub table, is in use all around the world by grateful guitarists who can thank Brian for helping to prevent serious damage to their instruments.

Funeral details are, as yet, unknown, and will be posted on the club website as well as here on Mudcat.

All our thoughts are with Cath, his wife, at this difficult time. At least she can count on all of her many friends for support.

We will miss you, Brian.