IT was around 2007 when I first met Alan Frank on the film screening circuit, and over the years we became colleagues and firm friends. He was the one who got me involved in writing for the Morning Star. 

What struck me was his mischievous grin, the twinkle in his eye and the witty ripostes he always had to hand, plus his knowledge of cinema and the film industry which was second to none, along with his passion and expertise on the horror genre which he wrote extensively on. 

He led a fascinating life. He was born in South Africa but was raised in Kenya and spent his holidays in Tanga (he always told me how Tanzanian coffee was the best, having four cups at breakfast).