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Joe Solomon was the founder of the Shellfish Network. While working in the kitchens of a large restaurant he was horrified to see how shellfish, especially crabs and lobsters, were killed, either by boiling alive or by being cut up also while still alive. He decided to devote his life to the welfare of all shellfish and founded the Shellfish Network in 1994.

Joe was meticulous in all he did, whether writing poetry, articles and research on pain in shellfish or keeping everyone entertained with his delightful humour. He had grown up in Edinburgh, been orphaned at a young age and cared for his brother alone. He put himself through college and became the much loved and gentle person we all loved.

Although a small man, scarcely five feet tall, Joe seemed to be a giant in all he undertook, keeping me on my toes with my English in all the articles I wrote and in the Guidelines for the care and welfare of shellfish, which have gone to well over a thousand restaurants in the UK.

Joe belonged to the Liberal Jewish religion and his funeral was really a celebration of his life. He would have been pleased but a little non-plussed to hear the Rabi's words of praise and love for this wonderful man, and, as is traditional at Jewish funerals, we were each, including women, allowed to throw three spadefuls of earth on his coffin. Although I was not able to attend the party (rather than a wake) afterwards was, I understand, a very happy affair.

Joe and his friends always celebrated Burns night and sent the proceeds to the Network. I believe they will celebrate again next year in memory of Joe.

Julie