Dear all
My dad lived for and loved Judo. We grew up with the sport as a way of life; my dad had it pumping through his veins. He had so many friends through the sport, many who have already sent their kind words about this larger than life character. He has left a large vaccuum behind which will be difficult to fill, however we have comfort in the fact that he was so well liked and respected. We are very proud of him. His loving children, John, Debra & Beverley

John Was a likable rogue I first met him when he was weight trainer at the KNK rali buildings run by Akinori Hosaka We enjoyed a drink on more than a few occasions one I remember was at a party to celebrate Neil Eckersleys bronze in the Olympics when he was persuaded forcefully to open the bottle of champagne given to the club for Neil but we persuaded him that our need was greater than Neils anyhow we toasted Neils success to great affect.
Another act of kindness was when I had my car stolen from outside the pub in Ardwick after training at the centre. Without hesitation he said I will take you home all the way to Bolton and wouldn't accept any payment. Rest in Peace John well done a great life and Thanks bye

Have known John for more than 35yrs,very sorry to hear of his passing.Have had many a good chat over the years and had plenty of sound advise during the early years of Swinton Judo club.
Also had "tick"on a few occasions after arriving on courses with no money...
All the best John wherever you are xxx

I have been a pal of John for some years and we shared many fond memories of life growing up in North Manchester. One of the other things we shared was the love of wildlife. His intention was to become a member of the RSPB as he was always driving up onto the hills,camera and binoculars at the ready trying to spot a bird or some other creature that we could then have a chat about. I once mentioned my love for the meat and potato pies from a bakery in Edenfield. Everytime he passed the bakery on his way to the Lancashire Health Club he would stop and buy me a pie and of course one for himself, we would then sit and gorge ourselves silly. Little things like this I will miss.If you ever needed any help or advice he was always there for you(a true friend). John you will be missed by all who knew you, and you will never be forgotten.Your pal Tony.

It was with sadness that I heard of John's death, although I had heard from some of my students at Haslingden High that he was not well. John was a big part of my past as I got into fitness and training at KNK and enjoyed his classes when he did Friday night circuit training (honestly who does circuit training on a Friday night!) and then the same again on Sunday mornings (the smell of beer and guinness being sweated out!!). I can also recall his double-act classes with Lesley where he would try to fool us with the same old routine, but with different music!
I remember when we all went down to the NEC for Gladiators and he made sure the KNK banner was at the front of the barrier. I miss the atmosphere of a real gym - you don't find them any more.
Rest in peace JD. Erika