In reply to UKC News:
I climbed with Derek a lot in the early 80's. We used to live near each other in Manchester, so would hitch out to Stoney together at the weekends to meet up with folk. He taught me much about climbing and life. One of his classic solos at the time was The Sloth at the Roaches. Derek would solo it regardless of conditions even when it was raining and usually did 10 pull ups, feet dangling, on the lip before finishing the final crack.
I was sad to see him leave for the States in the mid 80's, but given the grimness that was unfolding due to the Tory idiots in power at the time I don't blame him. I met with him a few times in Boulder and Boston and he seemed very happy. I met him in Boston about a month before he died and I recorded an interview with him, intending to write it up for one of the rags. I still have the cassette, but haven't been able to listen to it because I know it would be too painful.
RIP Derek. I miss you mate.
Craig