He went into hospital for a back operation, then it was discovered after he was home that he had an infection so went back into hospital where he contracted Covid and died from pneumonia caused by it. It's a terrible way to go.
None of us can go to the funeral because the country is in lockdown. His wife is lovely and his son Dan is also a martial artist. They are strong Yorkshire people but I imagine they are gutted.
Neil was a great instructor and referee, he's do anything for anyone and he was there for all his students and friends. He was such a kind, honourable man. He had a Yorkshire sense of humour and was never in a bad mood with anyone though he'd tell you straight if something was wrong. As they say here, he was a reet good un.
