I was shocked and saddened to hear the terrible news of the passing of my old colleague and business associate at just 59. My relationship with Tim was a funny one and in the early years of Network we often we didn't see eye to eye but I am pleased to say that over the last ten years we had a good relationship. I was only thinking about him recently as we were due a lunch.

Not a lot of people know this but it was me who helped Tim on his incredible industry journey after he called me sometime in 1996 with a crazy idea to release some old "Charley Says" public information films on video. The board at Sound and Media agreed to give it a go and we started Network. Early releases included the classic TV series Robinson Crusoe, Robin of Sherwood, The Flashing Blade, The Singing Ringing Tree to name but a few. In the early days many people thought Tim was mad about releasing old TV series on DVD but he knew better. Certainly a lot better than many of the content owners and myself. I distinctly remember Warren Goldberg insisting that one of the deals Tim had convinced Virgin to finance was the road to ruin. How wrong was he?

Tim was passionate, knowledgeable and convincing. I was often amazed at his ability to make deals happen. He lived his dream and I am proud that I helped him on his way. I am disappointed in myself that I didn't share the same vision. When I finally saw the light it was too late I had gone in a different direction and Tim had ended up with the company he had dreamed of. 

Tim could be a stubborn sod but he always believed in himself and totally understood his market and more importantly that there are large numbers of avid collectors and TV and film addicts just like he was.

Tim Beddows, I salute you.