This is a total shock to me. I saw the crash on the UK news, but never dreamed it involved an old friend. John and Mick Collins (whose name I took when Mick retired) all travelled together for Jack Taylor on a very regular basis - as many as seven or eight fights a week. There were even times when we were returning home after a long week, and John would work out a route away from the main drags, so Jack or Doug (Jack´s brother) would not see us and turn us around to go fight somewhere else, as often happened. Now we have lost him, and Mick Collins, too, fairly close together. R.I.P John. You were a good friend and confidante back in the day - the days we all lived in Leicester and lit up the Granby Halls. I shall always remember you.

It is many years ago now, but Mick and I were great friends. He was the first wrestler to befriend me when <i took it up under Jack Taylor. If you read my Profile, you will see that when Mick gave up due to a serious back injury, I replaced him in several bouts, because we looked very much alike. He was not only a brilliant wrestler, but also a lovely human being, with a fantastic sense of humour. I am saddened by his death, and shall never forget him. My condolences go to his family and close friends. R.I.P. Mick. You are in my memories.

I have always thought that it began dying when the last of the legends, or "characters" passed on, and at all weights, not just heavyweight. From the likes of Bernard Murray, The Royals, George Kidd, Dennis & Don Mitchell, Jackie Pallow, up to Bruno Elrington, Big Daddy, Klondyke Bill, and others. Once they disappeared from the fray, there were no characters or comedians to take their place. Many have tried and failed, however, right up until the present day. It´s only my opinion, though.

Hi 1978 Kid. Thanks for the welcome. In fact, thanks to everyone who has taken the time to message me.