I THINK it would be remiss of me if I did not comment on the tragic passing of Joe Longthorne, whom I and many others believe to have been one of our greatest performers.

Although Joe came from Hull he visited our part of the UK many times and my wife and I saw him in Bournemouth hotels, theatres and of course we watched his TV shows many years ago.

His performance combed so many different forms of his art and showed his abilities to the full. Joe, you will be very missed by so many of your fans here, may you rest in peace.

BARRY GOLDBART

Former Mayor of Bournemouth