R.I.P. Chris Jackson

[Renegadenemo]

I learned today that Chris Jackson of Metro Imaging passed away following a brave but short battle, his funeral will be held tomorrow.

Chris was very much an unsung hero of the Bluebird Project because he promised some time ago to have Metro Imaging produce the wonderful prints we sell to sustain the project FOC and has stood by his word ever since despite it being a costly and involved process for the company. All he ever asked in return was that 'we kept him a nice souvenir at the end'. We've had a piece of cockpit roller track complete with blue paint tucked away for him but I guess he'll not be needing it now. I can't claim to have known him particularly, we never got beyond trading a few mails and the occasional natter on the phone. We met once, up here, where he had a look at the boat, but what I do know is that he facilitated a contribution that has proven one of the mainstays and we'll be forever grateful to him.

[rob565uk]

I didn't know Chris at all but I do have one his quality prints and am very saddened to hear of his death. I am sure his significant contribution to the Project will never be forgotten.

[Mike Bull]

Aw hell, we were fearing this news weren't we? Not a chap I ever met either, but I'm well aware of his contribution.

[sheppane]

Chris_Jackson.jpg

This is very very sad news. Chris became a good friend when I was working on my book, and very kindly offered to scan and then retouch a great number of the images that we used. His work and that of his colleagues was impeccable. It was always a great pleasure to drop in on him at Metro's offices in Clerkenwell to discuss their work.

I last spoke to Chris at the end of March. He was making a hopeful recovery from his treatment and was keen to get back into harness at Metro.

I know he was looking forward to witnessing K7's return and also in potentially helping the Ruskin Museum with their display images.

My condolences to his family, colleagues at Metro and his friends. Chis will be greatly missed.

[Renegadenemo]

Chris at Metroimage with one of Keith's prints.

Chris Jackson.jpg

[wbjohn]

R.I.P Chris

[matthewjackson]

Dear Bluebird project,

I was going through my Father's computer today and came across some notes he had made about the Bluebird Project, so I thought I'd look you guys up on the web to indulge in some of his nostaglia. Then, when I looked you guys up, I found this post dedicated to him. Thank you so much for the very kind words, he would be absolutely delighted to know how appreciated he was. Dad was an absolute Donald Campbell nut, and loved everything to do with Bluebird and in fact any motorised contraption that pushed the boundaries of technological innovation and speed. He was deeply passionate about the Bluebird project in particular and we would frequently talk on the phone about the work he was doing work with you guys and list interesting facts he had learned from his visits and discussions. He was hoping to take me there soon to introduce me to your fantastic team and the speed-record breaker herself, yet alas he never had enough time to make that possible.

Keep up the fantastic work, guys. My Dad and I are 100% behind you.

With very best wishes,
Matthew Jackson (Chris' son)

[Renegadenemo]

Matthew,

Sorry I didn't spot your post straight away. I got a telling off from the guys today.
As you say, your dad was 100% behind us and his contribution has been massive. Do the numbers - he supplied our prints FOC and all he ever asked was that we saved a small piece of the boat for him, he really was a cracking bloke. We did just that and I still have it carefully tucked away. It saddened me greatly that we didn't get to give it to him. The last time we spoke he was going to try some different treatments but it was all too easy looking in from the outside to see that things were very grim and I never got the chance to speak with him again. So, Matthew, perhaps we can give it to you instead? To either keep on his behalf or to auction for his cancer charity. Either way, let me know and we'll get it to you.

Bill

[matthewjackson]

Hey Bill,

Not to worry about the delay at all. The fact that I've only just noticed your message is surely a sign that we're even! Personally, I think the charity options sounds like a fantastic idea and could potentially raise some vital funds not only a brilliant, but crucial research team. I have contacted my Mother today - via email - about this and expect a response by tomorrow, so can I swing by then and drop you a line with our verdict? I'm really excited about seeing the piece and thank you so much for holding onto it.

Matthew

[matthewjackson]

Dear Bill,

Is there a way I can send you a private message with contact and address details regarding the Bluebird piece? I can't seem to find a very straightforward way of doing this? Alternatively, could I ask for your personal email address to send you the details and ask more about the piece?

All the very best,

Matthew