R.I.P.

Dick Francis - one-time leading jump jockey (and I'm old enough to remember Devon Loch) who became a thriller writer par excellence. He wrote 40-odd books - or, depending on your point of view, he wrote the same book 40-odd times. But for sheer entertainment he was the master of his craft. You knew where you were with a Dick Francis, and he never disappointed. Formula fiction to be sure - but what a formula! His latest books were written in collaboration with his son Felix, and I don't know whether he will take up the torch from his father, but if he does, he'll have a massive job on his hands. Thank you, Dick, for all the pleasure you've given me over so many years. Sleep well.