For Lively Nye

I never was a great fan of The Smiths, but in about 2004, while I was living in Newcastle, Morrissey released a song that struck a chord. It was called ‘First of the Gang to Die’.  Although it had nothing to do with what the song was really about, every time I heard it I found myself considering my much loved group of local friends.  Which of us it would be, I wondered. It might even be me. After all, I tortured myself, we all have to go sometime. Who would be the first of the gang to die?

Nye, my wonderful, playful Novocastrian friend, my partner in so many crimes, I can’t believe it was you.  I can’t believe you are gone. My heart is with your beautiful wife and son and all your family and friends as we slowly come to terms with the news.

I’m not going to even try and write a eulogy here. There are too many stories and, still overflowing with sorrow, I can’t do any of them justice. There are no words. Still, it makes me smile to think that I once considered you a quiet, maybe even shy type.  How quickly that changed around our table at the Beaches Hotel.  You were in a particularly spirited mood one day and I commented on it. “You’re extra lively this afternoon, Nye,” I said, poking fun at your antics. “‘Lively Nye’”.

"That’s me,” you laughed – and I've called you Lively Nye ever since.

From finding you asleep on our couch most weekend mornings  to becoming flatmates ourselves, your friendship and sense of fun enhanced my life and Newcastle would not have been the same without you.  You saw me at my best and at my worst and you were still my friend. Although we all eventually moved on, I am so glad we stayed in touch  - it added an extra dimension that we could continue our antics in the UK and Dubai. The latter is where I last saw you. ‘Lively Nye in Dubai’ – your number is still in my phone.

I will always remember you when I see Sally Spectra. I will always remember you when I get chicken stuck in my teeth. I will always remember you when I drink cold beer on newly mown grass. I will just always remember you.  

And until the time comes when I see you again, thank you so much for so many great times. I hope you know that I love you and will keep your old secrets – and your hundred bucks.

Rest in peace, my friend.

 ‘Lively Nye’ Chaplin         19/8/1971 – 23/11/2011