RIP JV, part of my growing up with the Albion. As a teenager I must admit I never questioned his reports - if JV wrote it, it must have been true!
Used to look forward to getting the Argus on a Moday, just for his report. Afraid to say I don't have any of his books.
Along with the 35p entrance fee, 10p programme, the North Stand surges, terrible Goldsone toilets, another part of my Albion supporting history has gone.
John was my neighbour for a while when I lived in Hove. He was always passionate about Sussex sport. He was one of the old school sports reporters - a real Gentleman.
JV was a MASSIVE part of my childhood, and early Brighton days. I'll have to dig out my copy of "Up, up and away" tonight. That used to be my bedtime story.
"Can we have 'Ward, in and out' tonight mum?" a young Gritty would plead. I can see it now.
Like so many other long standing Albion fans I grew up on JV's match reports and coverage of the club. Always enjoyable, if provocative.
A fitting tribute would be if the Argus and the club could combine to produce a souvenir book of the top match reports and other features (eg, I think I am right in saying that Lawro being the first £100k signing made the front page of the Argus).
Like many Vinicombe's Verdict was an integral part of all things Albion for me. He is a big part of the club's history, whether one agreed with his verdict or not. RIP.