I don't think that racism is a generational thing, there are plenty of 'older' people who don't generalise, aren't racist, homophobic, xenophobic etc. My old man was an example, he was a prominent member of the Anti Nazi League during the 70's and 80's, an international Socialist, Trade Unionist, activist and massive City fan. I can recall a couple of occasions where he challenged racism on the bob bank, I was a wee lad, and my dad wasn't handy like Sludge, and these racists were never on their own, yet my father challenged them, they would always insult him, as they knew they were wrong, probably embarrassed, yet he stood his ground. As I child it would scare me, I was worried that my Dad would get hurt or attacked. It taught me a valuable lesson, don't let Racists or bullies get away with what they're doing-challenge them.

Feelings and emotions were never spoken about, we talked about the City, Politics and my kids, never about us, we were never affectionate, no cuddles or kisses, never saw him cry or upset, even when he lost his parents, sister. In 2005 he was diagnosed with COPD, I remember him telling me that he had 'this disease' and that was that. He condition worsened and he ended up on 100% oxygen, he didn't leave the house for the last two years of his life, I would visit him regularly, never once was his condition spoken about or the premature end to his life, it was still the city, politics and the kids. He died in 2011 aged 63. Rather than emotive, I remember the quirky things about my dad, he was hard work on times, very leftfield and had a wonderful imagination and sense of humour.