It was the early 1970's when I first met Chris. I worked in a shop in London, one half of which sold records. Chris was a regular customer and was often to be found cluttering up the place with a group of assorted customers chatting about  music. It sometimes had the air of a small club rather than a shop. I would not like to speculate as to how much chatting was done compared to how much money was spent!

When his sister, Anne, joined the staff she introduced me to Enfield and The George where happy times were spent with both them and their friends. Chris had a good circle of friends and my memories of that time are gatherings filled with laughter and a glass of wine or two.

I do not recall a political side to Chris at that time other than his union involvement at work, however I do recall the gift of a tea towel sold in support of striking dock workers. Most appropriate as my Dad was a docker.

Our paths have not crossed for many years and sadly the last time I saw Chris was at his Dad's funeral. He was the same old Chris and in typical Chris fashion handed  me his own glass of just ordered red wine with only the raise of an eyebrow.

So, goodbye Chris, thanks for the memories - and the red wine,

Viv x