Back around 1984, Simon, myself and James Burney, had pen pals in San Jose, California. Simon set up a phone call at his mum's house one day, so we could have a group chat. I remember him playing a couple of Frankie Goes To Holywood tracks down the phone, so they could hear them before they came out in the States. I honestly have no idea what that must have cost his parents on the phone bill. I always struggled to look at his mum afterwards.

I hadn't seen Simon for many years, but I have at times remembered our childhood friendship with warmth. I'm so shocked and sorry to hear of his passing. He was such a talented, caring and joyous soul.

Neil Dickson