James,
I am so saddened to hear of Malcolm’s passing, I can’t find the words to express what a wonderful, unique quite incredible man he was, I’m regretful I hadn’t seen or spoken to him in recent years, life can be complex.
I am however very grateful I got to spend my most formative years with him, I was certainly no world No1, however his discipline, strength of character, humour, self confidence, and respect are but a few of the qualities he instilled and have served us well in later life.
I have thought of Malc and my time at Pontefract often over the years, full of wonderful memories and people.
I often reminisce, and hope one day soon to see you James and recount some of the wonderful memories and stories including severe rollockings we have all had over the years, me more than most, my diabolical forehand drop shot I believe still holds the record according to Campion for making him shout the loudest.
To say he was revered, respected and loved by many would be understating the legacy that Malc has left.
I cannot begin to imagine how very proud Malcolm must of been seeing you play the way you do, on the world stage as No1, perhaps prouder still of the man you are today.
I can say with certainty we will never see another Malcolm, we can only cherish the memories and times we spent with him, and look at the many lives he has enriched.
Please pass on my love, kind thoughts and sympathies to all James.
Mark Blowers x
