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This
inspirational book is Pat Roach’s final goodbye to the world, before
his tragic death. The ‘Gentle Giant’ battled with cancer for
six-and-a-half years, before it eventually claimed him, in the small hours
of Saturday 17 July, 2004. His confidante and biographer, Shirley Thompson,
has combined Pat’s final experiences and thoughts, with over seventy
tributes from close family and friends, to produce a fascinating book.
Pat’s widow, Doreen, step-brother Pete Meakin, and a host of celebrities,
including Kevin Whately, Chris Fairbank, Julia Tobin, Noel Clarke, Jimmy
Nail and Timothy Spall, all feature prominently. Tim Healy, who was a
particularly close friend, has written an entire chapter; scriptwriters
Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais provide an insightful Foreword.
Pat’s request for an investigative chapter, to examine the mystery
behind Gary Holton’s untimely death, has been realised, with the
help of Gary’s mother and his agent, John Harwood-Bee. BAFTA award-winning
stunt coordinator Vic Armstrong describes his long-standing friendship
with Pat, which spanned most of their careers, through Indiana Jones,
James Bond and Arnold Schwarzenegger films. Wayne and Sarah Bridges, Mick
McManus, Seamus Dunleavy, Pete Roberts, Killer Kowalski and Joe D’Orazio
are just a few of the many sports celebrities who recall life with Pat.
Pat’s wish that this last book should convey a message of hope to
fellow cancer patients, whilst also providing a measure of funding for
the Cancer BACUP charity, will be realised, as the book is launched. His
courage, combined with the warmth and affection that he frequently inspired
in others, shines throughout. But be prepared for a few unexpected surprises,
including a chapter that could only be published posthumously! Two galleries,
containing over a hundred unique photographs, provide the crowning glory
to this truly memorable book… the third and final biography in the
Pat Roach Trilogy. |
