How Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson came to Ipswich

Former Radio Suffolk and Radio Orwell presenter Foz promoted two shows with Wilko Johnson in the town - and got to know him very well.

He was with the guitarist in 2014 when Wilko told the world he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer.

After a few months it was discovered that his cancer was treatable - and he survived another eight years, continuing to play concerts until last month.

Foz said: "I interviewed Wilko several times. The most memorable was that day in 2014 when he opened up about the grim news of his impending death. He spoke bravely and from the heart with not a hint of bitterness.

"I and thousands of others were so pleased it was a false diagnosis and delighted when his career took off again culminating in album chart success with his collaboration with Roger Daltrey.

"He was a remarkable guitar player, an outstanding songwriter and a master of stagecraft. I'm honoured to have known him and been able to bring him to Ipswich."

Wilko Johnson at Ipswich Manor Ballroom. (Image: Mark Ward)

Wilko Johnson played at the Manor Ballroom and the Corn Exchange in Ipswich.

He was originally from Canvey Island and made his name with Dr Feelgood in the mid-1970s. They were based in Southend and are seen as forerunners of the punk and new wave revolution that shook up the charts then.

But he left Dr Feelgood after a few years and formed his own band as well as playing with Ian Dury's band the Blockheads.

It was, however, his reputation as a live artist that made Wilko Johnson a music legend across the decades with his energetic style that left audiences transfixed.