WC AUGUST 6

It’s been a sad week with the death of Barry from the Chuckle Brothers and local Island former footballer and boxer, the legendary Arnold Olive.

I interviewed the Chuckle Brothers at the Mayflower, Southampton, last October. It was to promote their pantomime season. They were so friendly on the day and full of fun. Barry did not say a lot off stage but was such a lovely guy. A real old school professional entertainer. He’d been there and done it – and was grateful to have achieved national fame.

I had been to see Arnold Olive a couple of times at Kite Hill Nursing Home. I went with another mutual friend, Brian Morey, and we had some great moments with Big Arn. They were wonderful moments to remember him by. He was one of my earliest Island football heroes.

I have put the final touches to my new book, The John Hannam Interviews – The Wight Connections. It has now gone to the printers. I am very excited by it. It should be of great local interest – and there are a few surprises. One which is – why is Roy Barraclough in the book? Another is – why is Phill Jupitus in the book? All will be revealed.

I went to see Southampton play Burnley on Sunday. A most enjoyable day out. There were no goals but it was a fascinating game. The Saints played brilliantly for the last half hour. I am hoping to watch Pompey in a few weeks time.

It looks like interviews with two of my favourites in the next few days. Both on the same day in London.