Two deaths.

This morning came news of the death of two very different kinds of people that had but one thing in common; the ability to inspire young men. Osame bin Laden used his wealth and influence to inflict fear and misery in the name of a narrow, autocratic and joyless philosophy. His passing leaves the world a better place.

Henry Cooper was a far simpler but infinitely more valuable human being. "Our 'enery" was a last link to the days when professional boxing was an integral part of working class culture. He used his talent to make an honest living and entertain the fans. Cooper never had the protected career of today's fighters and faced the reality of defeat on several occasions but win or lose Henry was always the gent. He inspired a generation of young fighters with the simple credo of enjoying the sport and doing your best. He gave pleasure to people as a fighter and as a reassuring presence in the land . Thanks Henry.