John Burton was my close friend, mentor, guide and teacher for over 40 years. Ever since shortly before the 1983 election, when I stepped into his home during that year’s European Cup final – which Aberdeen won under Alex Ferguson – and was told to sit quietly until the match ended, I knew I had met a fellow soul. John had an extraordinary talent for politics. No one read the game better or had clearer and almost infallible judgement. As prime minister I would seek his advice on anything touching public opinion or the fortunes of the government and knew I would get an unvarnished and unswerving analysis worthy of the best political consultant in the country.
He was smart. But he was also caring, enormous fun with a brilliant sense of humour, and I sought his company as much for the laughter as for the advice. His passing leaves me quite bereft. My deepest condolences to Caroline, Jonathan and Glennis, and to all the Trimdon crew who were and are my friends and support.