In my view the descriptive noun ‘legend’ to describe people is used far too loosely and often much too liberally. One definition of the term is “someone very famous and admired, usually because of their ability in a particular area”. In my opinion one person who quite rightly deserves to be considered a legend is Peter ‘Stix’ Lockwood.
My first contact with Stix came about many years ago after I approached Leeds United FC requesting a prize donation in support of my annual fundraising event for my Military Veterans Association. Stix kindly invited me and my wife Carolynn to spend a match day at the club. After a coffee and chat in his office we were treated to his infamous stadium tour which not only demonstrated his immense passion and absolute knowledge of the club but also revealed his huge respect for the Armed Forces and his dedication to supporting these and other charitable organisations. In addition to all the football history, the Club’s halls of fame were adorned with so many plaques, shields and mementoes from countless arms and branches of each of the Services in recognition of the help and support they had received from Stix over countless years. After the match Stix took us to the Players’ Lounge to round off what had been a brilliant day in the company of an extraordinary man who, I am proud to say in subsequent years, became a true and loyal friend. Stix also came up trumps on the day donating a signed ‘Poppy Shirt’ worn by Sol Bamba as a raffle prize donation which raised valuable funds for my fundraising event.
From that day forward Stix has continued to support my Military Association and each year invited my members, along with so many others, to the ‘Annual Military Match’ which is always well attended by both serving and retired members of the Armed Forces. One year was particularly nostalgic for me as the match was against Charlton Athletic with whom I nearly turned professional after trials while I was still a young lad in the Army back in 1973.
In more recent years Stix has been so considerate and thoughtful, checking up on me when my health has deteriorated and most recently, he has been so compassionate and sympathetic after my wife very sadly lost her dear mother. With all his own ups and downs in life Stix always has time to think of others before himself.
So many other people have contributed words, memories, tributes, and compliments about this incredible man far more eloquently than me. I wish to echo each and every accolade and endorse every single word of praise and respect written about Stix. He is a ‘one off’, an extraordinary man of honour, integrity and humility.
A genuine and true friend, a thoroughly decent human being and an absolute gentleman. And I say this without any hesitation, he is an outright and indisputable legend.
Dave Smith
Secretary
RAPTC Association, North East Branch.