JT Condolences's Book Of Condolences ARCHIVE ONE

Name:	Geoff Hiscott
E-mail address:	geoffhiscott49 ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	Thanks Jake for your wit and cleverness end inspiration.Your combination of music and comedy is so special - and so close to my heart....The pleasure for me now will be catching up on the Jake songs I haven't yet heard or performed. Kindest thoughts to your family and all fellow admirers.. from: Geoff Hiscott... Band leader of 'Otis B. Driftwood Comedy Showband'

Friday, January 24th 2003 - 07:05:31 PM

Name:	richard wells
E-mail address:	richard ((at))speakeasy.be
Comments:	We lived about three miles from Castleford when I was a kid and I suspect my mother may well have been a member of "the circle". Sadly it's too late to ask Jake now. In France he'd have had a Legion d'Honneur and a funeral attended by 100,000 mourners. In England he didn't even make Who's Who any more.What's that about a prophets in their own land? Jake told us what to do in "Last will and Testemant". So let's get on with it. Where's the beer? RIP JT.

Friday, January 24th 2003 - 10:21:01 AM

Name:	Tim Haynes
E-mail address:	haynestim100 ((at))aol.com
Comments:	God, but you'll be missed even more. I grew up listening to your songs, giggling at the wit and acute observation, wishing I could be as articulate. I also listened to your anger at injustice and the general unfairness of much of life; agreed and still do. One of my favourite gigs was one of your in Barnet, just you and your backing band - a double bass - I howled with mirth for hours after. Wherever you are, I bet they're chuckling with you. When I heard you'd gone I tried to begin carousing, but it nearly turned into wet weeping. Thanks for all of it and condolences to your family.

Wednesday, January 22nd 2003 - 11:23:58 AM

Name:	Stephen Price
E-mail address:	stephengp73 ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	I've just heard the news about Jake Thackray. Over the years I've had a lot of pleasure trying to sing some of his songs and I suppose he's one of the reasons I took up the guitar in the first place.(Not a great service to music I think, but as I said I had a lot of fun). When I look back to my youth he's there - in the songs of my friends and their attempts to teach me a few chords. The humour was always present. A sadly missed character - rest in peace Jake.

Tuesday, January 21st 2003 - 07:45:44 PM

Name:	Geoff Tindall
E-mail address:	geofft ((at))freeola.com
Comments:	I've been holding a wake over you, Jake, 'but not a do with a few ham sandwiches, a sausage roll or two and "a small port waine please", so have have only just stopped laughing and crying enough to say thanks and RIP. Saw you in Cardiff 1982 and Mansfield 1989-ish. We'll all keep up the "vive l'anarchie" cry of Georges and yourself in the nicest possible way. You really did paint the clouds with sunshine. Cheers, Geoff.

Tuesday, January 21st 2003 - 03:53:52 PM

Name:	Jon Gross
E-mail address:	dj_snufkin ((at))yahoo.co.uk
Comments:	Thankyou Jake, and up with the Thackrays. I was a mere stripling of seven when my parents decided to introduce me to the more grown-up aspects of life via Jake's music. And thankful I was... I am now a well-balanced and stable individual. Humour is so important... Jake's words gave me so many smiles I could barely hope to repay them. So... a wide beam from me to anyone reading this!

Monday, January 20th 2003 - 10:42:12 PM

Name:	Mark Welton
E-mail address:	weeeeed ((at))ukonline.co.uk
Comments:	Jake - an underrated comic genius. I saw him twice, and on each occasion hardly stopped laughing the whole evening. He was utterly brilliant. I'll miss him a hell of a lot. So sorry to hear the sad news. Rest in peace, Jake - and thank you. Mark

Sunday, January 19th 2003 - 05:51:18 PM

Name:	Terry and Grace Gilmore-James
E-mail address:	grace ((at))manselthomas.org.uk
Comments:	We remember with great affection hearing Jake's recordings through a friend of ours when we lived and worked in Basingstoke in the 1970s. We bought some of the records and we were able to get Jake to give one of his special evenings at Queen Mary's (VI Form) College, Basingstoke in the late 1970s, when the new Central Studio was open and running. He was so much admired for his refreshing, frank and always captivating humour, musicianship and witty lyrics. His loss is very sad for his family and for his many admirers, but he has left us a valuable and lasting legacy which is completely inimitable. Farewell old friend!

Sunday, January 19th 2003 - 02:37:08 PM

Name:	Julian Evans
E-mail address:	jbe ((at))julianevans.co.uk
Homepage URL:	http://www.julianevans.co.uk
Comments:	I remember seeing Jake on somthing like The Val Doonican Show in the late 60s. On came this emotionless, boring face and I thought "yuk" and got up to leave the room. My parents said somthing like 'stay and listen to this, he's really funny" - a few seconds later I was hooked. But then came Emerson, Lake and Palmer, art school and a life of the usual human catastrophes - marriage, kids, illness, divorce, new partners, step children, money, work - and Jake got left behind. It was last year that I heard Sister Josephine again - for the first time in 25 years - I started to collect everything I could. The funniness I enjoyed as a kid - a man saying 'bloody' on TV! - was still there, but also the observations of life that only an adult can appreciate. I simply love his stuff. What a fabulous guitar player! What a voice! What intellect! What humanity. A sad, sad loss. My only wish is that I could have re-discovered him a whole lot sooner. Bloody funny man you were.

Sunday, January 19th 2003 - 08:32:30 AM

Name:	Lee Chandler
E-mail address:	roundwoodian ((at))aol.com
Comments:	I saw Jake at a folk club in Lichfield Staffordshire around 1975. He was standing directly behind me in the crowd as he awaited his introduction, he cleared his throat as well as any of the miners he stood with and went on stage to deliver a brilliant evening which hooked me forever to his great humour and precision in observation. A clever, witty and great entertainer who will be missed but what a fantastic memory and gift he leaves behind. Lee Chandler

Friday, January 17th 2003 - 10:52:31 PM

Name:	Terry and Lexley George
E-mail address:	telex ((at))consultant.com
Comments:	We knew Jake as a member of St Mary's Catholic Church in Monmouth. He was a deeply religious man, not in a stuffy or pious way, but with genuine faith and the ability to show God's Love by caring for other people. Whenever he came to one of our church's social events, he would put any food left over into a carrier bag and take it home to give to people in need in the area where he lived. That's true greatness, when a man of such fame and talent shows simple love and compassion for those around him. He played his guitar and sang his songs for us with genuine pleasure in our dingy little church hall, just an ordinary Catholic among a bunch of others. He had true humility, no airs & graces or sense of being anyone important. We shall miss him enormously and hope one day to hear that wonderful deep voice again in the world to come. May God bless you Jake and give you eternal life with Him in Paradise. I hope He has a good sense of humour!

Friday, January 17th 2003 - 09:04:04 PM

Name:	Peter Finney
E-mail address:	peter.finney ((at))lsc.gov.uk
Comments:	I've been saying a prayer or two for your soul Jake and for your family. A unique and gifted songwriter who was truly blessed and has left us all a wonderful legacy by which to remember him. Let's not let his memory slip. Thanks for the memorable live performances.

Friday, January 17th 2003 - 01:25:28 PM

Name:	Basil Foot
E-mail address:	bgfoot ((at))lineone.net
Comments:	I was a schoolboy friend of John's at Bontddu N.Wales. I was privileged to stay with him in Leeds in 1951 and he came to my home in Woking in 1952. We climbed Cader Idris together and he was great fun to be with.I was very sorry to hear of his death and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Tuesday, January 14th 2003 - 03:31:18 PM

Name:	Anna Bass
E-mail address:	annabass ((at))impulse.net
Homepage URL:	http://office.geog.uvic.ca/dept/whale/anna.html
Comments:	my condolences to jake's friends and family. i met jake when i was staying at caer llan (near where he lived) for the summer, and have wonderful memories of his wit and energy, his love of cricket, and especially the charity cricket match he organized, which was followed by a concert - my only opportunity to see him perfom in person. he'll be greatly missed. .a.

Monday, January 13th 2003 - 06:39:56 PM

Name:	Shirley Leyshon
E-mail address:	shirleyleyshon2002 ((at))yahoo.co.uk
Comments:	I recently "rediscovered" Jake about six months ago, after discovering that a good friend of mine includes "On Again, On Again" and others in his set at the local open mike night. I had distant memories of Jake on TV (Braden Beat), and gradually remembered such gems as Lah Di Dah... So deeply sorry to hear of his passing. Deepest sympathies to his nearest and dearest. The only consolation is that although he is no longer here, his wonderful lyrics will continue to give pleasure forever more.

Monday, January 13th 2003 - 01:11:05 PM

Name:	Esther
E-mail address:	estherallan ((at))aol.com
Comments:	I was very sad to hear the news about Jake, and would like to send my sympathy to his family. He's always been a huge favourite with our family and always will be. He was a real one off, so clever and funny and warm, and wrote the most wonderful song about death in 'The Last Will and Testament'.

Monday, January 13th 2003 - 01:33:14 AM

Name:	Bob Keighley
E-mail address:	rakeighley ((at))blueyonder.co.uk
Homepage URL:	http://cant remember
Comments:	God bless you old Jake For all those funny songs About everyday things Butchers, statues and gongs You'll live on in our hearts and our ears most of all But we won't go without mourning for a gentleman soul.

Sunday, January 12th 2003 - 09:47:39 PM

Name:	Trisha Summers
E-mail address:	trish ((at))id-digital.net
Comments:	I was very sad to hear of the death of Jake Thackray. I was born and bred in Monmouth, and when we had children of our own, we would often see Jake in the Albion Stores in Cinderhill Street with his boys. He was a very natural person who fame did not change. He regularly treated our children to sweets in the shop if we happened to be in there with them. We also loved his songs and ditties, and the music world will be emptier without him.

Saturday, January 11th 2003 - 04:25:24 PM

Name:	Ian Clark
E-mail address:	ICC.Ockhamsconsulting ((at))dial.pipex.com
Comments:	Jake always gave us his own unique view of life but put it in such recognisable, attractive songs that he allowed us the illusion that he was singing the words we would have used if only we were clever enough. He was such a talented, delightful, gentle man with a core of solid realism underneath. A delight to listen to and an honour to meet. He was a one-off genius with a dark voice that carried his humour so effectively. "Bloody lah-di-dah" he would say - but this time he would be wrong.

Friday, January 10th 2003 - 09:35:44 PM

Name:	Joe Cross
E-mail address:	cross.fam ((at))zetnet.co.uk
Comments:	I saw my first live Jake Thackray performance in Sheffield in the early 70's - I haven't stopped laughing at his songs since. The mark of a truly great comic song is that it's still funny every time you hear it - and most of Jake's songs fall into that category.

Friday, January 10th 2003 - 02:09:47 PM

Name:	David Jordan
E-mail address:	david ((at))jordan-music.fsnet.co.uk
Homepage URL:	http://www.fatjew.co.uk
Comments:	More than a man, he was my remedy Shone a light through words and melody All the things that he gave back to me Laughter, hope and human dignity� What can you say about a man who saved your soul?

Thursday, January 9th 2003 - 11:56:45 PM

Name:	Chris
E-mail address:	chris ((at))gee1953.freeserve.co.uk
Comments:	Dear Jake Thank you for making us roll about with laughter when you struck up with the words, "I love a good bum on a woman it makes my day...." at the Robin Hood Theatre, Averham in the late 70's. You were late and we had filled in time by sampling the whisky in the theatre bar. Thank you for entertaining us at Grantham Folk Club also in the late 70's. Thank you for writing your songs and sharing them with us - the lyrics of your songs will lurk forever in my mind, sneaking out every once in a while to remind me how absurd we all are. You kept me waiting, now you'll have to wait for me - I'm bringing my guitar so you can teach me the chords - I never could work them all out. God bless you and your family, Chris

Thursday, January 9th 2003 - 11:52:08 PM

Name:	Joe Fleming
E-mail address:	joe-fleming ((at))tiscali.co.uk
Comments:	When I heard that Jake had died I felt that I was priveleged to have known him but I was so sad that I had failed to have kept in touch with him over the years. I was a year behind Jake at School (St Michael's in Leeds) but used to see him in the mid 60's when he called to see his Mum, Molly, who lived just over our back garden fence. Jake was a wonderful observer of life and he captured this brilliantly in his wonderful lyrics. As Jake became more famous I felt that he was out of my reach - but that was unfair to Jake as I know that he always had time for everybody. I thank God for knowing Jake and I know that whatever may have overwhelmed him in this life that he has a sure place in the next because he was a good man. I send my love to his wife and his family Joe

Wednesday, January 8th 2003 - 10:55:21 PM

Name:	Jan Flick
E-mail address:	jan.flick ((at))virgin.net
Comments:	Such very sad news.Played 'The Hair of the Widow of Bridlington' whilst reading the condolences, and tears came to my eyes for the sheer beautiful blend of wistful humour and humanity coming from this wonderful songwriter. Saw him several times in the eighties and often wondered if I would see him perform again - I must now rely on my vinyl collection and memories of his very warm and personal live performances. My heartfelt wishes go to his family and friends.

Wednesday, January 8th 2003 - 09:17:08 PM

Name:	Brian Smedley
E-mail address:	smedlo ((at))globalnet.co.uk
Homepage URL:	http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~smedlo/
Comments:	"I just wanted to say that we held a memorial gig for Jake Thackray at the Bridgwater Labour Club on friday 3rd January. Recently Joe Strummer died near Bridgwater and the gig was for him but we had no hesitation in adding Jake to the roll of honour. I met Jake in 1978 when he played Bridgwater Arts Centre-in fact hitch-hiking down from Leeds to get there with 3 minutes to go before the concert started.I met him in the dressing room afterwards and got his autograph. Thackray and Strummer are muy 2 biggest musical influences and that they should both leave us in the same week is a grim end to 2002."

Wednesday, January 8th 2003 - 10:16:40 AM

Name:	Andy Hughes
E-mail address:	andrew_hughes5720 ((at))lycos.co.uk
Comments:	It's seems paradoxical - but Jake's influence goes beyond words! His songs have given us such a unique and appealing insight into the human condition. But above all - tongue in cheek - he makes us laugh and long to inhabit his world. My thoughts are with his family.

Tuesday, January 7th 2003 - 01:18:22 PM

Name:	Jake Shields
E-mail address:	richardpshields ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	What am I supposed to say to the people on the 6:59am from Gibson Long Island to Woodside in Queens when they ask why I am sitting there sipping hot coffee laughing my head off. And no headphones - I don't have time for such - all the laughs are firmly inside now. How do you introduce such a humble man to the New World? Would Old Molly Metcalfe make it there? Could One Eyed Isaac or Billy Kershaw handle themselves in the Bronx? Is Leopold Alcocks welcome in Brooklyn? If they are good, if they are very good, I just might tell them about a singer from over there. Maybe someone else will be laughing into his coffee as the train pulls out of Woodside at 7:20am into the tunnel onto Manhattan.

Tuesday, January 7th 2003 - 03:25:18 AM

Name:	Sue Down
E-mail address:	suzie.down ((at))virgin.net
Comments:	I am so sorry for your loss. The words he wrote were more than poetry. My partner died in July this year and the only wish that he had for his funeral was that 'Last Will and Testament' was played, as it summed up everything he thought about death. To hear it played again for Jake himself was very painful. My thoughts are with you at this time. Sue

Monday, January 6th 2003 - 10:29:21 PM

Name:	david wellings
E-mail address:	davwellings ((at))bmf.demon.co.uk
Comments:	I am so so sorry. I have been trying to get hold of more of his material for ages - songbooks, music and so on. I wondered if he still played gigs too. I had the unforgettable opportunity to witness one of his concerts in Wolverhampton many years ago. I so loved his work and play his songs constantly. I am deeply saddened - though as he put it himself; 'roll the carpet right back, get cracking with ther old gay gordons, and if the police come, say the parties' mine boys. He has given me and I'm sure many others, so much fun and pleasure!! best wishes to his family

Monday, January 6th 2003 - 07:15:35 PM

Name:	Jean-Pierre GABILAN
E-mail address:	jpgabilan ((at))aol.com
Comments:	I have just been told of the very sad news. I had come to know the songs of Jake Thackray through Georges Brassens, the legendary French singer Jake Thackray said he admired so much. In 1979 I had come from France to spend a year in England as a French assistant in a school (Middlesbrough) and found a record with Brother Gorilla on it. I had never heard of J.T. before I must confess. I bought the record, listened to it, and again, on again, on again... Just fell in love with the man. He has been with me ever since and I have introduced him to many a French student - and many friends in Britain too I must say. Over the years I managed to get hold of all his records and never understood why there was only one Cd available. Our public radio station France Inter once played one of his songs after I had sent them a tape of his translations of Georges Brassens's Marinette. I tried to contact Jake Thackray by writing to EMI (around 1986 or so) but I take it my letter never got through. I can say that his songs are part of my life and not a week goes by without my putting one of his records on. I wish I had lived in England when he was on various TV shows or radio programmes. I am simply very sad that a great song writer should have left us so soon. As I live in France I never managed to see him on stage. I was told I had missed him by a day or two once I was visiting friends in Sheffield. We may be lucky and get EMI or others to produce a video - or dvd now - of Jake "live" in ... wherever. I shall be keeping an eye on those new releases from now on. This is a very sad day to me. Jean-Pierre GABILAN Jacob-Bellecombette Savoie France

Monday, January 6th 2003 - 05:41:24 PM

Name:	Anthony Teague
E-mail address:	tone ((at))bushinternet.com
Comments:	I was sorry to hear of Jake Thackray's death; I remember fondly, albeit dimly, early appearances on the Sunday afternoon children's TV show Tickertape (though he once replied to a letter of mine saying that he reddened to remember the songs). I also remember a (presumably live) performance on Bernard Braden's show in which Jake, possibly singing Sister Josephine, went on beforehand about his bowels to the amusement of the audience, prompting a slightly acidulous Braden to congratulate him on stretching out a three minute spot to nearer eight. But it's a big regret that I never got to see him live, once going to Edinburgh's Calton Studios around 1977 and foolishly forgetting to book in advance: the muffled sound of the audience enjoying themselves was as far as I got. Years later, probably around the mid 90s, I was on a train going to or from Wolverhampton, saw what I thought was a spare seat and, approaching, thought I recognised the man sitting opposite: "Mr Thackray?" He acknowledged that it was indeed him, but I then launched into a rambling adulatory spiel, mentioning Tickertape, that was probably highly embarrassing for him in that public place with no escape short of the communication cord. But he simply said mildly, "Yes, well, I think that seat is taken," and I moved off. Not much of an anecdote, although I did slip or bump into someone at some point later on en route to the buffet, thus doubtless confirming my status as grade A nutter in Mr Thackray's eyes.

Monday, January 6th 2003 - 03:03:39 PM

Name:	Tony Cima
E-mail address:	tony ((at))honeyend.com
Homepage URL:	http://www.honeyend.com
Comments:	Jake holds a special place in my memory. He was the "star turn" when I first performed in public as a floor singer at the Carlton Folk Club in Cheltenham in the early 70s. Shortly after, I went to see him at Pewsey Village Hall. I was with my young sister (aged about 10). We were at the front and she didn't have a seat. Jake came on stage and offered her his seat from the stage. He meant it! We will miss him.

Monday, January 6th 2003 - 11:25:34 AM

Name:	micca
E-mail address:	micca ((at))miccapat.plus.com
Comments:	I have been listening to and enjoying Jakes work since the 60s and his skilful songwriting and wry humour has been and inspiration and a source of amusement in about equal parts, He will be missed but his beautifullly crafted songs will live on where ever people with a sense of humour sing. My Heartfelt condolences to his Wife and Family..

Monday, January 6th 2003 - 11:20:40 AM

Name:	Neil Weedon
E-mail address:	nfjw ((at))blueyonder.co.uk
Comments:	Although I've only recently re-discovered Jake, having originally heard him as a teenager back in the 70's, I can't help but wonder about his undoubted talents.I'm just thankful that I did find him because he hass given me so much pleasure since. Jake, may your god protect you. Thank you so much.

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 10:25:37 PM

Name:	mike s-d
E-mail address:	michael.smith-daye ((at))libertysurf.fr
Comments:	A huge, big, vast, monumental talent and it seems a bit bloody unfair that he should have been called in before his time was really up. France mourned when Brassens died, and I hope the UK'll do the same thing for Jake: they were for sure equals. My next door neighbour here was Brassens's next door neighbour in Sete as a child, and so I played her the sole, publicly-extant, JT CD. She said 'My God, it's Georges singing in English'. She's French, so she said it in French, but I knew what she meant. I've played the CD more than any other CD I own, and I still laugh at the lyrics every time I play it. You were a genius, Sir, and, by all accounts, a right nice man. I'll miss you quite badly: it used to make me quietly happy to know that you were alive and living in Monmouth.

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 08:10:42 PM

Name:	Anne Bingham
E-mail address:	steve.bingham1 ((at))ntlworld.com
Comments:	I had the pleasure to book Jake at Readifolk Folk Song Club in Reading on at least two occasions. I was also able to offer him hospitality and a bed for the night after the performance. Apart from wonderful evenings of songs and humour one memory will stay with me. Usually we took the dogs with us to the club (my husbands working guide dog and his retired one) As it was going to be a busy night we left them at home but warned Jake that they were indoors and would probably burst out when the door was opened. This duly happened and instead of coming straight into the house Jake followed the dogs down the garden and proceeded to play with them for some time. It was about midnight - we had warned our neighbours that Jake would be staying the night. Thanks for a great and unique sense of houmour and for all those great songs.

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 03:37:03 PM

Name:	Caroline Evans
E-mail address:	carolineevans1 ((at))yahoo.co.uk
Comments:	The news of Jake's death is so very sad. I remember his first appearances on the television [black and white of course]and bought his records for some years but lost track thereafter. Why, oh why does the media so misuse talent, over-exposure on the tv to start with and then dropped/dumped. And of course there are no decent music programmes on tv apart from Jools Holland. I have only just found the JT chatrooms and am delighted that more of his work may become available and I have just ordered the one CD available thru Amazon - would like to get more. To his family if they see this - please accept this expression of sympathy at your great loss.

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 02:51:17 PM

Name:	Ken Smith & Nog Hafter
E-mail address:	smafters ((at))ntlworld.com
Comments:	Very sad news. We loved his songs and saw him perform at the Waterman's in Brentford a couple of times. ps. our youngest son is also Jake and I'll be teaching him a few JT numbers as soon as he's old enough to appreciate them (about 25?).

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 01:44:52 PM

Name:	Steve Linehan
E-mail address:	Linehans ((at))btinternet.com
Comments:	I was shocked and saddened to hear that Jake had died. I loved his work, and saw him live in Brighton when he was doing the folk club circuits (despite being a well-known TV personality then). He came across as a man of warmth, humanity, and humour. The world is a poorer place without him.

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 10:54:09 AM

Name:	Tim Baker
E-mail address:	tim.baker ((at))wanadoo.fr
Comments:	Thank you Jake for words and your music and your way of looking at life through your songs. I had the chance of seeing Jake twice in 75-76 when I was helping run the Manchester University Folk Club. It was not the sort of cosy pub-like atmosphere that he would have liked (top floor of the students union, at the end of long neon lit corridors, and poor beer in plastic glasses!!). But he gave his best and was loved for it, howls of laughter and almost stunned silence after his Molly Metcalf "Encore". He spoke in admiration of Brassens from whom he learnt so much. Later I moved to France, and having learnt and loved Brassens, I came to appreciate how the English translations that Jake had written could only have been done by a fellow poet with such a close outlook on life. Thank you Jake for your songs and putting me on the road to discover Brassens. You gave me one hell of a lot.

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 06:33:59 AM

Name:	emma judson
E-mail address:	e.judson ((at))btopenworld.com
Comments:	I am just 22 years old. I am a singer, song writer and (pretty bad) guitarist. I never met Jake, though i truly wish i had. The greatest gift my parents gave me, was Jake Thackrays music, in the car, in the house, anywhere, anytime. The gift Jake has left me is music, and i hope in years to come, that my children, should that come to pass, will listen too, and be inspired by his words, his songs. He inspired me to become a musician, and i thank him for that, it is a greater gift than all the material things in life. and, in spirit, if not on the collar, ALL my dogs are 'Ulysses'!!!!! RIP Jake. Emma

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 05:11:59 AM

Name:	Gordon D. Reid
E-mail address:	lesleyreid ((at))talkgas.net
Comments:	I hope that he gets what he wished for. My childhood hero, his brilliance will live with me until the day I "rattle my clack" I'm gathering "some buds for Jake". I'm going to miss him, there is a tiny empty hole in my life compared to that of his family. Roll back the carpets and remember him as he would have liked, indeed as he dictated. God bless and thank you for your life Jake. You made and indeed are still making me very happy. What a way to go, making people laugh and smile and be one of the greatest singer songwriters that the world has ever known. Sorry mate, I'll never forget you. Gordon

Sunday, January 5th 2003 - 03:00:20 AM

Name:	Phil Turton
E-mail address:	wolfscote ((at))cwcom.net
Comments:	I was priviledged enough to have seen JT twice, the second time a few years ago at The Pomegranate, Chesterfield. It was a great family occasion with ten of us in attendance and needless to say a great time was had by all, except perhaps for the man himself. After the first few bars of "The Jolly Captain" he dried up and had to admit to forgetting the words. My mother being my mother piped up "don't worry we all do it", to which Jake replied " yes but you didn't write the f****** song ! ". A great man who will be sadly missed by this fan, and the sadness deepens knowing more about his recent troubles and his reluctance to perform. God rest.

Saturday, January 4th 2003 - 08:41:59 PM

Name:	Ian Fordham
E-mail address:	ian_fordham ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	A wonderful talent, and sadly under-rated. I still play several of his LP's, and "Brother Gorilla" has always been one of my children's favourite songs. As a keen attendee at various folk clubs in Essex, I saw Jake play a couple of times. Once, I asked his permission to record his show (just a little Walkman). Not only did he agree - he stopped half-way through the first song to ask if he was singing loudly enough! Condolences to all who knew and loved him.

Saturday, January 4th 2003 - 07:52:13 PM

Name:	David Fulton
E-mail address:	Dejay1 ((at))t-online.de
Comments:	One of the cleverest and most creative lyricists the UK has ever known - it saddens me to hear that old Jake has passed away. I remember as a kid always looking forward to his weekly appearances on "Braden's Week" (I think it was called) on BBC TV. The way he could mould complex, inexplicable feelings into humourous, though touching verses was both refreshing and fascinating, one of the last true folkies - he will be missed. My condolences go out to his family and all those who were close to him.

Saturday, January 4th 2003 - 01:06:29 PM

Name:	Rob Peacock
E-mail address:	robert.peacock1 ((at))ntlworld.com
Comments:	So sad to receive the news - got out the guitar and played Leopold Alcocks & Sister Josephine when I heard. Hadn't seen Jake since the good old days of the Oval Folk Club (Hendon Rugby Club)in the 70's. My brother Les did a marvellous impersonation of him in those days and used to sing his songs accompanied by myself. One evening when Jake was there, he heard that we played his songs and insisted on us playing a couple of them,(despite our reluctance). RIP Jake - we'll miss you. Our sympathy goes to his family

Friday, January 3rd 2003 - 01:29:33 PM

Name:	Benji Benjamin
E-mail address:	abenj ((at))globvalnet.co.uk
Comments:	A hero of words passes on. We met many times at Cherrytrees Folk Club, Alcester, Warwickshire (no longer functioning) and Redditch Folk Club which I co-ran until the early '80's.I have a claim to fame in as much as when Jake was performing at Redditch one evening he broke a string on his guitar and, for the sake of continuinty, picked mine up and played it for the rest of the evening. I still have it and it has gone on again on again on again on. A sad loss, heartfelt feelings to all family.

Friday, January 3rd 2003 - 12:46:40 AM

Name:	Madeleine Stanford
E-mail address:	madeleine.stan ((at))clara.net
Comments:	I never thought of myself as the type to be a "fan". But lo and behold! I find I am a fan of Jake Thackray. Strange to be sad like this about the death of someone I have never even met - but his songs have been a source of pleasure, and wry amusement, and celebration of life both physical and spiritual, for many many years. If it's sad for me, then how much more sad it must be for his family. Good luck with the job of putting the sadness aside and celebrating his life - according to his instructions.

Thursday, January 2nd 2003 - 11:39:47 PM

Name:	David Evans
E-mail address:	platformone ((at))zoom.co.uk
Comments:	I first met Jake more than 25 years ago when he used to attend, as simply a member of the audience, the Folk Club I co-ran in his much-loved Monmouth. He was a kind and wonderful man. In the early days of the now-established Monmouth Festival, he'd turn out nightly and give us a hand with chairs and crowd barriers: just doing his bit as a local citizen. When mini-rugby needed funds Jake, still at the height of his national popularity, got mates like Max Boyce and Mike Harding to turn out with him at the Leisure Centre in a concert t0 raise serious money for the development of a club that today still gives pleasure and opportunity to hundreds of kids. To those of us who knew him well he was just Jake - a man to stop and pass the time of day with - a town 'character'. It was easy to neglect the fact that he was one of the very best songwriters of the 20th century who based his work on terrific observation and a real love of life. There will be a void where Jake once was, but he would not want people to be maudlin about his passing. I think he would, however, be pleasantly surprised by the love and praise showered on him in your book of condolences. Long may his memory last.

Thursday, January 2nd 2003 - 01:19:58 PM

Name:	Colin Hough
E-mail address:	colin ((at))woodbridgefolk.fsnet.co.uk
Homepage URL:	http://www.woodbridgefolk.fsnet.co.uk
Comments:	Sleep well Jake. Having booked you twice I always said I'd do it a third time, I guess I'll just have to remember you as you were. Thanks for the encouragement you gave me at the time, you were one of the nicest artistes I ever met.

Thursday, January 2nd 2003 - 12:04:53 PM

Name:	david armitage
E-mail address:	d.armitage ((at))lancy.ch
Comments:	John Thackray was the son of my father's sister Ivy (the Aunty Ivy of the song- the only and youngest boy in a family of nine. We went to the same school in Leeds, practically growing up together,butlost touch when he went to university-wherehe picked up the name Jake at Durham university. I heard of his death in a way that would have had him chortling.I was walking along the Rambla, in the December sunshine typical of Barcelona. I stopped to buy my Saturday Guardian to read Smallweed over a coffee. My eyes lazily strayed across the page and popped at "original lyricist and founding father of the English chanson" Eh ? What ever the English chanson is, I thought, its founding father he must have had his memorial for many a century ! And, there is Thack, first cousin John, staring out of the page ! Would he have guffawed if he had known that Keith Flett was already sucking his gums to get something erudite into the Guardian for the umpteenth time. Tell Sheila, whom I've never met, we would be delighted to hear from her. And to be able to meet her and her sons, to share rich memories. David, Claire-Lise and Matthew (Switzerland)

Thursday, January 2nd 2003 - 11:46:36 AM

Name:	david armitage
E-mail address:	d.armitage ((at))lancy.ch
Comments:	John Thackray was the son of my father's sister Ivy (the Aunty Ivy of the song- the only and youngest boy in a family of nine. We went to the same school in Leeds, practically growing up together,butlost touch when he went to university-wherehe picked up the name Jake at Durham university. I heard of his death in a way that would have had him chortling.I was walking along the Rambla, in the December sunshine typical of Barcelona. I stopped to buy my Saturday Guardian to read Smallweed over a coffee. My eyes lazily strayed across the page and popped at "original lyricist and founding father of the English chanson" Eh ? What ever the English chanson is, I thought, its founding father he must have had his memorial for many a century ! And, there is Thack, first cousin John, staring out of the page ! Would he have guffawed if he had known that Keith Flett was already sucking his gums to get something erudite into the Guardian for the umpteenth time. Tell Sheila, whom I've never met, we would be delighted to hear from her. And to be able to meet her and her sons, to share rich memories.

Thursday, January 2nd 2003 - 11:44:46 AM

Name:	Alistair Robinson
E-mail address:	alistair.robinson ((at))northeast-press.co.uk
Comments:	I was a big admirer of Jake's talent.As well as being a lyricist of genius, he was a very fine guitar accompanist, with a lovely jazzy style. Saw him perform several times, and have great memories also of his TV appearances. Am a journalist writing a piece about celebrity deaths in 2002, and am including Jake in it. In fact, the article was inspired by reading of Jake's demise.

Thursday, January 2nd 2003 - 11:18:08 AM

Name:	Ray Foster
E-mail address:	raytfoster ((at))hotmail.co.uk
Comments:	When I was still a bachelor, my best pal and I were bemoaning the fact that we were still single. We couldn't find ladies who came up to our rigorous standards. The situation was summed up as follows: 'If a man can find a woman who loves Jake Thackray, then he won't go far wrong'. Well, we both eventually did, and I'm glad to say we were proved right! Margaret and I both feel the magic of his songs very deeply. Just an example - this last summer, driving back from Ullswater, with 'The Blacksmith and the Toffee Maker' and 'Country Bus' playing on the cassette - magical indeed. We planted a pussy willow in his honour when we gat back home. Goodbye and God Bless, Jake. We're sure that you were welcomed through The Gates on Christmas Eve to the strains of 'Remember Bethlehem' Love from Ray and Margaret.

Thursday, January 2nd 2003 - 10:57:12 AM

Name:	Peter Sumner
E-mail address:	petersumner ((at))sbcglobal.net
Comments:	Jake's visit to Bermuda (Early '80's) with Sheila was a high point of my involvement with the Bermuda Folk Club....The warmth and friendship shown to everyone they met was genuine and heartfelt...a great time was had by all..... A quick story.....about six of us, including Sheila and Jake were attempting to swim at Horseshoe Bay....a bit rough...with a wicked undertoe...what did we know?...so we decided to give up and get back to the beach...easier said than done...so we held hands in line...then Sheila looked at me and said "Are your feet still feeling sand..." and we realised that the undertoe was getting the better of us....Jake and I made eye contact and calmly (sort of) got a better grip with our toes and we inched our way towards to shore with the shorter folks hanging on for dear life. Next time we met, years later, he introduced me as the man who saved his wife's life...and the story was repeated with much elaboration.... Thanks for the music Jake....thanks for the laughs... thanks for everything....

Thursday, January 2nd 2003 - 07:09:43 AM

Name:	Ian Radburn
E-mail address:	ianradburn ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	Three times in my life I met Jake. Three times I was blessed by his kindness, charm and his seemingly unending capacity for pure unadulterated laughter. England has lost one of its foundation stones and, God help us, we need Jake's humour in these troubled times. I'll be drinking to you for a long time yet! I look forward to a 'session' when I throw off this mortal coil.

Wednesday, January 1st 2003 - 11:40:43 PM

Name:	Judith Taylor
E-mail address:	juditht ((at))supanet.com
Comments:	Reading all the tributes to, and stories about Jake makes me acutely aware of how much has been missing from my life since I lost track of him in the 70s, to discover his work again only a few months ago. I have this profound sense of opportunities missed, and of delight never experienced; and now I must catch up on all this without even the remotest hope of ever meeting this incomparable artist in person. Happily his music and songs remain with us, as do his countless admirers who, by performing his work and sharing their pleasure in it, will ensure that it remains a living joy. You will sing on in our hearts, Jake, and we love you for it.

Wednesday, January 1st 2003 - 08:05:18 PM

Name:	Sarah
E-mail address:	sarah.lawson1 ((at))btinternet.com
Comments:	A Sonnet for Jake Peer, philanderer, villain and his whore, Wimpled, whiskered Sister on the lam, Forgotten Molly, singing on her moor, The dog, the cock, the Swan, the Swaledale ram; A primate, novice in the arts of love, The Captain and his vitriolic wife, Great leaders raining bullshit from above, You wrapped them in your songs and gave them life. Listening now, we smile to see our woe, Our drives and torments, frailty and fear Held gently in your open hand, and know The sins that make us mortal, made us dear. And find we love ourselves and others more Because of, not despite, each human flaw

Wednesday, January 1st 2003 - 02:31:27 PM

Name:	Terry O'Keeffe
E-mail address:	terrence_o_keeffe ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	A fond farewell to a man who had the capacity to make you think and laugh all at the same time. I remember those nights at the old "Jug o' Punch" Folk Club which was run by the Campbells in Birmingham. It was such a delight to see and hear the man who had performed all those witty songs on TV. It's such a shame that TV forgot his talents. We won't, Jake. Your legacy is treasured by many.

Tuesday, December 31st 2002 - 03:29:50 PM

Name:	Clive Webb
E-mail address:	cwebb ((at))tinyworld.co.uk
Comments:	I've enjoyed Jake's songs since watching him on "That's Life" around 1977 when I was 13. I saw him performing in 1994 at the Talbot, Knightwick near Worcester and it was one of the most enjoyable concerts I've ever been to. I nervously spoke to Jake afterwards and he couldn't have been nicer. He seemed more interested in publicising the homemade bread that the pub had for sale than his own cassettes! I've since collected all his LPs and was very sad to hear of his death. He created an awful lot of laughter and happiness. I'd always hoped to see him perform again someday.

Tuesday, December 31st 2002 - 02:32:35 PM

Name:	Quentin Howard
E-mail address:	JT ((at))coolflorida.com
Homepage URL:	http://www.coolflorida.com
Comments:	What a fine man. So bloody clever with words. Humour at three levels (and maybe more). I laughed, my son laughed, my parents laughed. Sing your songs in Heaven, Jakey Baby, to all them big daft buggers up there - we'll be up in a minute or two.

Tuesday, December 31st 2002 - 10:30:51 AM

Name:	Edward Oliver
E-mail address:	m-e-oliver ((at))supanet.com
Comments:	I'll never tire of hearing Jake's songs, no matter how many times I play them, they are still funny, poignant or thoughtful, usually in equal measure. For me, Jake was a genius, for all of us his memory will go on - and on again, on again on.

Tuesday, December 31st 2002 - 09:35:39 AM

Name:	Bill Fitton
E-mail address:	bfitton ((at))talk21.com
Comments:	"Blackbirds is dumb in the juniper,lapwing shivers in the dripping thicket"...just a line from from "Rain on the Mountainside" which caught my attention many years ago and introduced me to the works of a great wordsmith. Hope you are singing in the meadows now Jake.

Tuesday, December 31st 2002 - 12:32:16 AM

Name:	Pam Archer
E-mail address:	t10jal ((at))yahoo.co.uk
Comments:	"I want no great wet weeping no tearing of hair no wringng of hands no sighs no lack-a-days no woe is mees and none of your sad adieus go go get the priest and then go get the booze boys don't bother with a fancy tombstone or a little copper flower pot Grow a dog rose in my eyes or a pussy willow But no forget-me-nots no epitaphs no keepsakes you can let me memory slip........." Sorry Jake, can't do that, the keepsakes are too valuable. But I'm off to gather rosebuds for you. Goodbye, and thanks. With love from Pam

Tuesday, December 31st 2002 - 12:00:43 AM

Name:	Deirdre Gage
E-mail address:	deirdregage ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	I remember hearing Jake on the local news programmes in the 70s. My parents were fans and I think saw him in folk clubs about Leeds. My mum taught in the local Catholic school and was a particular fan of Sister Josephine! Strange then that her behaviour arranging my wedding made me think of Lah Di Dah! You'll be missed.

Monday, December 30th 2002 - 09:44:34 PM

Name:	Malcolm Jeffrey
E-mail address:	malcolm.jeffrey ((at))virgin.net
Homepage URL:	http://freespace.virgin.net/malcolm.jeffrey/malcolm.htm
Comments:	Jake Thackray. Singer-Songwriter Talented, Consummate, Gifted, Skilful, Genius Lugubrious, Deadpan, Thought-provoking Self-effacing, Modest, Shy Expressive, Literate, Poetical, Erudite, Wordsmith Irreverent, Downright Bloody Rude Loving, Sensitive, Passionate, Warm, Caring, Spiritual Inspiring, Legendary Sensible Funny Missed Gather a bud or two for Jake.

Monday, December 30th 2002 - 04:14:16 PM

Name:	Audrey Jermyn
E-mail address:	audreyjermyn ((at))blueyonder.co.uk
Comments:	I have been a fan of Jake's for over 30 years, I play his music constantly. I saw him on a couple of occasions when he played The Buddle Arts Centre in Wallsend - a small venue, one where he said "just get up and get yourselves a pint if you want - you can get me one and all, if you like!" Very sad news - but his music will live on.

Monday, December 30th 2002 - 01:53:15 PM

Name:	bob roberts
E-mail address:	judith.roberts1 ((at))virgin.net
Comments:	it was with a feeling of great sadness that i learned of the death of someone i regarded as a friend,even though we met on few occasions. it is strange how we british have a penchant for not recognising great talent, jake was not only a superb performer but one of the most perceptive observers of the human condition. thank you jake......sleep well.

Monday, December 30th 2002 - 09:02:32 AM

Name:	John Wray
E-mail address:	jwray ((at))xtra.co.nz
Comments:	My thoughts go out to Sheila and the boys at this time. Receiving the CD's was the highlight of 2002. Receiving the news that Jake had left us was the low point. I've loved Jakes music for the past 30 years. He gave us such lovely songs for all of us to enjoy.

Monday, December 30th 2002 - 06:06:00 AM

Name:	paul regan
E-mail address:	nager ((at))kooee.com.au
Comments:	Despite living in Australia for the past 27 years I have never forgotten the songs of Jake Thackray.I first heard and saw him many years ago while still in the UK. I have tapes, albums, a CD, plus a book of his songs and like many others have learned several of them and sing them often. His work was brilliant and I am sorry I never had the opportunity to meet him. Thanks Jake for everything you gave us. You will be missed.

Monday, December 30th 2002 - 02:36:13 AM

Name:	maddy
E-mail address:	maddystan ((at))aol.com
Comments:	although I didn't see Jake very often, not since last February in fact, I still feel the large empty space in the fabric of things which has been left by his passing. My thoughts go out to Sheila and the boys. It may be a very sad time but you can't think about Jake for long without a broad grin crossing your face!!

Sunday, December 29th 2002 - 03:43:02 PM

Name:	Lawrie Bryant
E-mail address:	lol ((at))lawriebryant.co.uk
Comments:	I've just bought a new turntable and I start to play 'On again, on again', a record I haven't played for about five years. For some reason I decide to look through the sport section of Saturday's Times, something I never normally do. And there in the Obituaries is Jake. Sleep well, ol' son. God bless.

Sunday, December 29th 2002 - 02:36:10 PM

Name:	Hilary Spencer
E-mail address:	hilary ((at))hilaryspencer.com
Homepage URL:	http://www.hilaryspencer.com
Comments:	I only met Jake once and found him to be tremendously self-effacing and genuinely modest. I feel so sorry that now I shall never be able to tell him how much I have admired him all these years. It seems so sad that he suffered so badly with nerves, fearing that "tonight may be the night they don't laugh" - I can't ever imagine how that would have happened. He was unique and a real gent. I shall miss him terribly.

Sunday, December 29th 2002 - 01:51:37 PM

Name:	Paul Thompson
E-mail address:	P_A_M_Thompson ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	Despite Jake's sentiments in 'Last Will', I cannot help but feel a tremendous sadness at his death. I was lucky enough to see him live several times in the early eighties and was struck by the brilliance of his writing and performance, but also his humility and humanity.

Sunday, December 29th 2002 - 10:10:43 AM

Name:	Clive H
E-mail address:	ve3chh ((at))rac.ca
Comments:	Sunday 29th December 2002 Strong men's hearts leap And they weep at the news of your death. We weep, we are solemn initially. Then we think of your words And gruffly wipe away the blinding tears To see more clearly What you have known in your heart all along Life is a beginning, a childhood A time for laughter And for falling and making mistakes. We are the weak and tearful ones You have gone. You are strong. No bullshite.

Sunday, December 29th 2002 - 09:11:27 AM

Name:	Clive Hollins
E-mail address:	ve3chh ((at))rac.ca
Comments:	Jake a long time ago you were responsible (well partly anyway) for the rest of my life. I met and fell in love with a woman. Not, as you sang with petticoats and a cleavage, but a sincere loyal friend. We were privileged to meet you once in Southampton where you played with Alan. God knows we even got a dog and named him after you. We visited your country and drank in the air of your hills and fell in your streams and began to understand your love of that place and of people, and of passion and weakness and strength. We bought your songs and marvelled at the truths in them all, and you were never very far from us. And we are still in love. Thank you.

Saturday, December 28th 2002 - 10:01:56 PM

Name:	Jon Benns
E-mail address:	jon ((at))benns.fslife.co.uk
Homepage URL:	http://www.jonbenns.co.uk
Comments:	Dearest Jake You amused me and inspired me. You befriended me, and at times I even felt you trusted me. You were never comfortable with your genius and the way it made others behave towards you. Thank you for letting me get past that. With love and deep respect

Saturday, December 28th 2002 - 08:39:57 PM

Name:	Joe Eddington
E-mail address:	Joe.Eddington ((at))tesco.net
Comments:	Wendy and I are were very sad to hear of Jake's death. we have seen him on many occasions and have some of his vinyl Lps which we still play. Independently I became interested in the songs of the French singer- songwriter George Brassens and was struck by the similarity of style and subject matter. I have today learnt in his Obituary in the Guardian that he was a friend and sometimes co-writer with GB. I would like to learn more about this link. When Brassens died Jake said of him ' he is head and shoulders above other chansoniers.' Well we think that Jake was the English Brassens and was head and shoulders over all contemporary song writers. Condolences to his family. Let us not let his work fade into obscurity! (Perhaps like the bantam cock he is only faking death)

Saturday, December 28th 2002 - 06:41:26 PM

Name:	Simon Levett
E-mail address:	simonL78 ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	I remember first seeing Jake when he had a regular spot on the Beryl Reid show in the early seventies. I never saw him in concert which I will always regret. Jake was vastly underrated and the world is a poorer place without him.

Name:	Bonita Morris & Steve Sindell
E-mail address:	Gnomentrol ((at))btopenworld.com
Comments:	Great sadness on finding out, only today, that Jake is no longer with us. Long may he be counting the sheep wherever he is now... "Yan, tan, tether, mither, pip"

Name:	Eliahu Stern
E-mail address:	els ((at))yaad.org.il
Comments:	I am probably the only Israeli to make an entry. I love Jake Thackrays songs.

Name:	Chris Hewitt
E-mail address:	chrishewitt1459 ((at))aol.com
Comments:	The world is now a poorer place. Condolences to his family & let's hope that more people will be introduced to Jake's music after his passing. He was a genius.

Name:	clive russell
E-mail address:	cliveremoveantispamrusl ((at))yahoo.com
Comments:	Fondly remember watching Jake perform on Granada TV in the 60's. A truly unique artist.

Name:	david hill
E-mail address:	waterspade ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	Wi Muckle respect, will be greatly missed It was and will always remain a great memory in concert at Hexham in 1992 Thank You Jake God Bless

Name:	Bob Bramwell
E-mail address:	bbramwel ((at))shaw.ca
Comments:	"You can say a prayer or two for me soul then but... make it quick, boys" I'll be hoisting one in your memory, Jake. Enjoy the afterlife!

Name:	Trish Barker
E-mail address:	trishbarker_uk ((at))yahoo.com
Comments:	I think my best memory of Jake is him singing 'The bigger the bull....'at Llandovery theatre in the early 80s....keep singing up there,Jake....my Mum has just died and I hope she can hear you.

Name:	Pete
E-mail address:	p.hughes121 ((at))blueyonder.co.uk
Comments:	My wife and I have enjoyed listening to Jakes songs for many years, so we were thrilled to see him a few years ago in Birmingham, an unforgettable and brilliant night. So sad that he has left us. A talent never to be equalled.

Name:	Steve Favill
E-mail address:	sfavill ((at))wi.rr.com
Comments:	Jake, you were a constant scource of inspiration, and never failed to brighten my day. Thank You!

Name:	Nick Cater
E-mail address:	maverickmediauk ((at))yahoo.co.uk
Comments:	Much missed - but Jake's songs will last as a tribute to his humour and humanity.

Name:	Martin
E-mail address:	Epsil6 ((at))aol.com
Comments:	His songs are to me, tender, reflective, humerous and generous - his passing is a sad loss.

Name:	Shane Malone
E-mail address:	smalone ((at))iiu.ie
Comments:	I have only recently come to appreciate how much he meant to so many people - I have never felt so saddened by the passing of any performer - his talent was beyond compare and shall be greatly missed. Best wishes to all he held dear.

Name:	Philip Barnett
E-mail address:	philip ((at))pjbarnett.co.uk
Comments:	Wonderful songs and great memories of a fantastic late night concert in Oxford. I will never stop laughing at his lyrics.

Name:	Chris Ingram (Jackson)
E-mail address:	tig ((at))rincewynds.freeserve.co.uk
Comments:	I first remember Jake from being a VERY little girl when he taught at Intake with my Dad (Don Jackson) and have had many happy years listening to his music both live and recorded. A sad loss all round.

Name:	Tony De Sarzec
E-mail address:	tony ((at))blackspace.freeserve.co.uk
Comments:	There will never be another one like you. You old bugger! I still can't believe that the time has come for us to gather a bud or two for you.

Name:	Gary Trend
E-mail address:	gmtrend ((at))yahoo.co.uk
Comments:	Such sad news. I will remember Jake and his great talent for combining laughter and inteligent thought, using words and music. My condolences to the his wife and children. Gary

Name:	John Gosden
E-mail address:	johngosd ((at))phuketinternet.co.th
Comments:	I can only say that I heard the news with great sadness, and a sense of irony that his work, thanks in part to the JT Project, was about to come before a wider public.

Name:	Dean Haigh
E-mail address:	lemonsizzler ((at))yahoo.co.uk
Comments:	Joe Strummer and Jake Thackray both gone in the same week! Ian Dury gone two years! Soon we will have no one left to speak for us! R.I.P

Name:	John D'Arcy
E-mail address:	johnspencerdarcy ((at))eircom.net
Comments:	I loved hearing Jakes songs ever since I saw him on 'Thats Life ' with Esther Rantzen .... I have a friend who keeps singing 'Leopold Alcox'. Goodbye Jake we will miss you and your great music.

Name:	John
E-mail address:	chihaya ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	JT performing "Jake the Peg" on BBC's Look North is one of my earliest memories -- I may have been a mere kid at the time, but even then I instinctively knew this guy was a major talent!

Name:	Sean Murray-Smith
E-mail address:	smurrays ((at))bigpond.net.au
Comments:	If I'd known how much I loved him I would have loved him more.

Name:	Rob W
E-mail address:	noname ((at))nowhere.com
Comments:	Just like to say thanks for writing some clever and bloody funny songs. Rest peacefully Mr T.

Name:	Terry Gilligan
E-mail address:	tgilligan ((at))supanet.com
Comments:	For putting me on the right road,for being a good laugh,for being a good teacher for giving me part of you . make the perishers laugh.... love Terry x

Name:	Alan Moffatt
E-mail address:	alan.moffatt ((at))virgin.net
Comments:	He celebrated the ordinary through his extraordinary talent. I'm devastated at his passing, even though his music and wit will live on.Deepest sympathy to his family.

Name:	teresa thom
E-mail address:	ta_thom ((at))yahoo.ca
Comments:	Thanks to Jake I learned poetry and love of language wasn't just for twits.

Name:	Gareth Senior
E-mail address:	gareth53 ((at))hotmail.com
Homepage URL:	http://www.gareth53.freehighway.net
Comments:	Gone, but not forgotten - a talent that will endure for many more years I'm sure. Thanks for the words. Rest In Peace.

Name:	David Cant
E-mail address:	davidjcant ((at))hotmail.com
Comments:	Your words and music stayed with me long after I'd first seen you. Though you've gone they will stay to be enjoyed. Thank you!

Name:	Paul Hobday
E-mail address:	paul.hobday ((at))virgin.net
Comments:	15 years ago, I met Jake, and didnt know what to say. I said "Hello" - Jake said "Hello". And that was it. Well, I havent improved. I still dont know what to say. Goodbye Jake - and thanks.

Name:	David Jacobs
E-mail address:	dacid ((at))opticimage.com
Homepage URL:	http://www.opticimage.com
Comments:	Should turn Jake into a National Monument then perhaps we might see the resurgence of Isobel! Gone but not forgotten.....