Recalling long nights of conversation in London clubs during the 1980s, ex-Marillion vocalist Fish says: "We'd rattle off on our favorite subject of history, and especially World War 2.

"He was a highly knowledgeable and intelligent guy with strong opinions as well as being a huge romantic with a passionate lyrical bent. I really enjoyed his company back then.

"He came up to North Berwick in 1987 to attend my first wedding - much to the surprise and amusement of fellow guests, who he totally charmed and captivated with stories. He was a charming and sensitive man totally outwith his rough desperado image."