“I knew one day it would be become far more poignant.
“We often joked with each other that it was all a ruse just to get someone to make a film about him! In honour and memory of a true entertainer, it has overnight become a more difficult watch – but he would want people to see it I am sure.”
Others told of James’ “kindness”.
“The laughs we’ve had, the tears we’ve shed,” an old school-friend said.
“My one and only constant friend I’ve always had, no matter how much time passed.
“We’re devastated Jim… you’ve left a hole no one will ever fill.”