I WAS sad to learn of the death of John Wilkinson (Echo, Sept 22), but what a lovely article giving details of John’s life.
John was well out of my league on the football pitch yet I had the privilege of playing in the same team on a number of occasions.
In 1964 and 1965 I played for Wanderers Reserves in the Sunday afternoon league when Sunday football was still frowned upon a little.
Occasionally I was called upon to play in the first team where John was a supporter and sometimes used to play.
John’s club in the Northern League were not keen on their players playing elsewhere. I believe in case of injury.
For away matches the team used to meet up in the Red Lion in Priestgate where pints of beer pre match were sometimes taken resulting, I am sure, in some sending offs.
John was always happy with his lime and lemon and I used to follow his example.
Being in the same team as John certainly raised my game through his talent and inspiration.
Mike Taylor, Darlington.
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