Wigan Album

I recall seeing this article on TV. Either Scene At 6.30 or the BBC North West programme.

As I remember he went to Art College at Wigan tech. he was a mate of John Riley and Dave "Simon" Parker.

As I remember he went to Art College at Wigan tech. he was a mate of John Riley and Dave "Simon" Parker.

I met him through another member of the art fratenity at Wigan Tech, John Sherrington.

Vance was filmed breaking the record and also in December 1970, to enable world record holder Vance (seen here drinking tea on the BOBS) to ride the BOBS for the last time.

I think Graham originally came from Diggle Street. Didn't he go to St Andrews school along with Dave Flemming and Geoff "Elmer" Hardman?

i remember vance tutton at wigan tech art college 1963 /64h how did he die he did abstract art i think

Sadly Graham 'Vance' Tutton committed suicide - in the late 90s I believe. He had been working as a taxi driver in Wigan when he was mugged at knifepoint one night and this incident started a spiral of depression that resulted in him taking his own life a few months later. A sad end to an extraordinary life - his record on the BOBS record is just the tip of the iceberg of things he was involved in.

Graham Tutton was my house master at Bentham Grammar boarding School in the last 70's

Graham was my godfather and uncle - he was my mother's brother. He was, indeed, born and raised on Diggle Street and sadly he did commit suicide following the mugging.

He lived an extraordinary life and I have nothing but great memories of the man.

I was at art school in Wigan at the same time as Vance. I've often thought about him and wondered what became of him. I was sad to learn of his untimely death. I remember after going to see the Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger had kissed me after a show when I met him, and Vance said the next day "Unfortunately I can't kiss Mick Jagger, but you would be the next best thing as I'd had the privilege!" So I gave him a kiss, I was 16 at the time. I don't remember much about Vance after that. I left Wigan a few years later, but I return occasionally. Good memories.

I was with Vance on his Bobs attempt. We were both doing a Dip Ad in sculpture and drawing at Manchester Art College at the time. He was disappointed at having to end his attempt so soon. He wanted to go on longer but the powers that were in charge ended it as soon as the record was broken. Cost cutting. Accountants always trump creativity don't they?

Graham was my wonderful, loving older brother. I still miss him

What a sad end to his colourful life. Do you know the exact date of the record run in December 1970? Thank you

I knew Graham neither as a boy or a man, but what a fine chap he appears to have been and what a tragedy he was taken so young. Thanks for sharing your memories in such a fitting tribute.