Dear Edwyn,

Can I just thank you for your contribution to my life. From that very first shiver I got listening to Felicity on the John Peel Show to the smile I still express today when you burst into laughter half way through Consolation Prize, it's important I let you know how much your music means to me before one of us croaks it.

I was hooked instantly and bought all the singles and albums, the ten inches, 12 inches and even ripped the flexi discs off Smash Hits and Melody Maker. I told my schoolmates all about these cool Jocks playing jangly riffs and wearing silly haircuts. So I cut my hair like you and wore those daft shirts and scribbled the group's name on my rucksack.

I watched you live whenever you were in Liverpool or Manchester, taking a variety of girlfriends who never did get exactly what you were singing about (it was definitely a boy thing)  but danced along because the music was so infectious.

I wore the records out because I loved them so much and knew every word of every song. At a time when music could be angry and political you put some fun back into it alongside some fantastic melodies, serious soul searching and lyrics which could only be appreciated by soppy young men chasing the love of their lives.

Of course, life took over, career, marriage(s), children, grandchildren now, and the Juice took a back seat. I bought a couple of your solos and was fiercely proud of my musical heritage. The dignity and honesty you have shown in your lyrics since you "bruised your head" (I still get a chill when I listen to the Barbecue Song) is truly amazing. But I have to admit I lost track a little.

Then, a couple of years ago the kids bought me the Coals box set and it all came flooding back. Mate, you are pretty special. Your songs are on loop in the car now, even the grandkids are singing along.

So it's just a thanks Edwyn. Long after we shuffle off, your music will continue to make people smile, laugh and long for the love in life. It's ludicress but it's a legacy. What a privilege to be able to appreciate it.

Steven Brady, Wigan