Tito our pal from Uganda

It is often said that Penwith is the toe in the sock of Cornwall and as such all the nuts fall to the bottom.

There is a certain truth in that in the sense that we probably have more eccentrics, flam­buoyant, artistic and plain crazy souls per square foot than any other area of the British Isles - and long may it continue.

Such an eclectic mix of people makes for a colourful and interesting life and their presence in this community is to be welcomed.

Dear Tito was one such. His public face was often on display as he played guitar, sang and whooped in Causewayhead, exuberant, colourful, vibrant, if sometimes the worse for a drink or two. There was absolutely no harm in this man and much joy, which he shared with many.

Privately he was warm, humorous, intelligent, gentle and generous. He had a dignity and bear­ing which bore witness to his tribal origins in Uganda and was a considerable musician and teacher, much loved by his friends and their children.

'Polyrhythms' were his speciality and he was a percussionist and song-writer par excellence. Though he would have made a poor accountant, he had a finely-honed handle on long and. Short term loans! He was, after all, 'with the Woolwich' - as he would often remind us.

His many friends have been much distressed that he should have died seemingly so alone, though those close to him had tried vainly to offer some comfort and help to him.

Tito was a very special guy who brought the joy of his own culture and spirit into the heart of Penwith and in doing so touched so many of us. We shall miss him.

THE CORNISHMAN 13 NOVEMBER 2003 COMMENT