It is the funeral of the Reverend Paul Nicholson today in Tottenham. In ordinary times I would have been there paying respects to a veteran campaigner and letter writer.
It may perhaps suggest a conspiracy of Guardian letter writers that I knew the Reverend well. However while we discussed campaigning many times I dont ever recall discussing letter writing with him. Perhaps it is a solitary activity, very unlike campaigning.
Below is a brief appreciation I wrote on the news of his death (I had seen him in central London not long before) and also a lovely tribute from the Guardian to his letter writing.
His legacy, organise,organise,organise. Campaigning has never been more important in a society of haves and have nots. Secondly,keep writing those letters. In a democratic society a plurality of views is not only important, its essential.
Reverend Paul Nicholson (1932-2020). No home but the struggle
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/mar/30/the-rev-paul-nicolson-a-campaigning-life-in-letters
I never met him, but followed his ceaseless campaigning for the homeless and for the complete overhaul of the way this country’s housing is viewed by, and operates in, our society.
The news of his death was met with a profound feeling of sadness and loss, by me, and many others too I’m sure. I miss our brief but heartfelt online exchanges. He is, indeed, a great loss to his family and friends, and to us all.