Sad news this evening as it has emerged on Twitter via Allan Taylor that Essex’s Vic Harris, perhaps best known as being the mentor of the likes of Steve Davis, Stuart Bingham and many more players over the years, has passed away earlier today.
I never came across Vic myself, but his reputation goes before him and you can watch him talking about the league named after him and some of the current professionals to have come from Essex, here at this excellent feature produced by the BBC a couple of years ago. Scroll to 2 hours 44 minutes for the start of the feature, or a couple of minutes later for the interview with Vic.
A selection of words from those who knew him are below…
RIP VIC HARRIS……I love you mate. Thank you for everything. Goodnight God bless. X
— Allan Taylor (@AllanTaylor147) March 10, 2015
Sad news that Vic Harris died today. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. A great player and Romford hero who will be missed — Barry Hearn (@BarryHearn) March 10, 2015
Really sad to hear that Vic Harris has passed away today . Ex snooker pro and top coach but above all a true gent and lovely guy. RIP Vic .
— barry pinches (@barrypinches) March 10, 2015
Just heard the sad news, Vic Harris passed away this afternoon. Someone who helped me in my early days! Had a great innings! RIP mate.
— Stuart Bingham (@Stuart__Bingham) March 10, 2015