Dear Sir,
I was saddened to hear news of the retirement of Honest John due to ill health. I along with many others have admired his tireless work and commitment to the Newton Aycliffe community over the years. I have always enjoyed a visit to Honest John’s premises often buying things donated by others in the knowledge that they were helping good causes. John always made it clear that there was no purchase necessary, all were welcome to just pop in for a chat.
I have known of John for a good deal longer than from his days on the Town’s market. I think I recall his sales at the long gone Equestrian Centre Sunday morning car boot sale. Many years of commitment to the town.
I always found popping in very interesting, even a calming break in a busy day, chatting to John about the issues of the day, not always agreeing. He would laugh at my jokes, highly unusual, and tell me about his love for Tesco’s diabetic ice cream, the North Yorkshire coastline and of course The Beatles.
On one of my last visits I purchased one of a set of mugs that John had made with his familiar pipe holding bearded image on. It will always have a prominent place at my home.
I hope that as well as the over £200,000 raised over the years that Honest John’s work will inspire others to at least do a little for good causes themselves. I always believe that if everyone does a little, no one should have to do a lot. John did a lot.
If you are reading this John I would like to close with a thank you for the bits and bobs I have bought over the years, thank you for your work supporting the fabric of the Newton Aycliffe community and thank you for the friendship you gave to us all over the years.
I wish you well in your retirement.
Darren Clarke
