It’s hard to believe it’s over 40 years since I first met you, John.
I remember my first visit to Redcar. You took me to the mid-week quiz at the Pig & Whistle. A fresh-faced 19-year-old Southerner, sitting in a windowless, panelled room full of Northerners! You all took the quiz so seriously. I wasn’t much help until the last question had you all stumped: What’s the nickname of Luton Town FC?
“I know this one,” I said. “The Hatters.”
“Are you sure?” came the dismissive reply.
“Yes. Luton’s where they make top hats, thus The Hatters.”
“I think he’s right,” someone said.
I was. We won the quiz, celebrated with another pint of John Smith’s, and your mate Neil said I could come again!
I miss our telephone chats about football, Brighton & Liverpool FC, especially if Neddy, the closet Everton supporter, was within earshot. I also loved listening to your stories about Eugene Sledge, the American bomber squadrons and anything relating to the Second World War… honestly, I did! You always spoke with such knowledge and passion, even if your audience didn’t always share your enthusiasm.
You always enjoyed your trips down to Brighton, sitting in our garden with a bottle of Bud — in a glass, with a splash of lime cordial.
And then there was our holiday to Mijas, when you both developed a taste for Mojitos!
You gave everyone a nickname, sometimes not too complimentary. That always made me chuckle.
You were such a great family man, John. Your love for Edna and your girls was unwavering, and it was something I always admired about you.
I know these last couple of years, since Edna became ill, have been incredibly hard. No more pain or turmoil now, John. You can finally be at rest.
Sleep peacefully, John.
Nigel x
Nigel Clamp
25/09/2026
