Another passing

It was upon booking the Old Mill Theatre For A lad in sane's debut performance (July 2006), that I was introduced to one Mr Williams. Me not having much of a clue about anything theatre, other than I had a script I wanted to breathe life into. Hywel agreed to do our lighting, and on realisng he'd just been introduced to the 'Frank Spencer' of the theatre world, agreed to offer advice on sets and much more. His first question to me was, 'how many flats do you want?' I of course rep;lied, 'what are flats.' I could see the cogs in his head working overtime until they stopped at the word 'Englishman.' The fact I was born in the poor part of Britain got me off the hook on numerous ocassions. Following our debut production Hywel was offered a driving seat on the A lad in sane bus and remained there ever since. I was delighted last year that Hywel somewhat fittingly became the first person to direct one of my full length plays. It was a very proud moment for me, for I know he wouldn't have taken it on out of sympathy. I was sure that if I were a boxer, Hywel, would have been in ny corner wiping the blood off my face, and cursing me for being english and not getting my hands up. At the same time he'd be offering words of encouragement. My involvement with theatre has reaped many friendships, and none more so than the one I shared with this man and his interpreter. He was like an uncle, if not a father. Today I feel incredibly sad...who's going to do the bloody lights now Mr Williams? Of course, someone will, but rest assured, no one takes his place in my corner...that place belongs to him. To Dianne and family, I offer my sincere condolences. Johnny Grim