I found the contrast between McGinn's life and manner of death haunting and though the piece took a lot out of me physically because of emphasema and a general lack of energy and strength I stuck with it and decieded it would be my last sculpture.

Acre Road was sold this year. Five studios became empty and I just couldn't get anyone in, I suppose because of the current economic climate.

I finaly ran out of money and couldn't keep the place going. The new owner was more than reasonable and accepted the money I had and surrender of the lease, he even kept on the five who were still here at more or less the same rents. One of the rare good guys.

I actually feel as if a huge weight has been taken away.

There is a plan to move to the Isle of Wight, my youngest son lives there in sheltered accomodation. I would have a small garden with quite a large shed and so could drift into the twilight growing carrots and making small things. I haven't decided yet but its got to be better than a one bar electric fire.

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