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THE ASTRONOMER Electronic Circular No 1632      2001 May 13 20.33UT
Ed:Guy M Hurst, 16,Westminster Close, Kempshott Rise,  Basingstoke,
Hants, RG22 4PP,England.Telephone/FAX(01256)471074Int:+441256471074
INTERNET: GUY@TAHQ.DEMON.CO.UK             GMH at AST.STAR.RL.AC.UK
WORLD WIDE WEB                    http://www.demon.co.uk/astronomer
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                          JOHN HOSTY

It is with considerable sadness that I must inform you that Len
Entwistle has telephoned to say that John Hosty passed away in
Huddersfield Royal Infirmary earlier today. He was just 51.

Subscribers to these circulars will know from the announcement
on E-Circular 1624 that his brother Stuart had informed us on our
return from the BAA Winchester Weekend that John had been
admitted to hospital suffering from severe stomach pains.

Although I initially received quite optimistic news that treatment
could be given, it gradually became apparent that John's condition
was inoperable.

John was known by most as the only member of the UK Nova/Supernova
Patrol who visually discovered a nova, the object he found in
Sagitta in 1977 and which I had the honour to confirm for him.
However less well known is the remarkable support he gave so many
people starting out, especially in nova hunting, and it was
his enthusiasm that passed to so many astronomers persuading
them to also search the heavens. He was a great admirer of George
Alcock and it is indeed sad that we have lost two great observers
in so short a period.

Most of all John was such a friendly and warm person. During his
stay at TAHQ last year he often said how he regarded TA and all its
members with the deepest of affection.

Our heartfelt sympathy goes to members of his family.

Guy M Hurst

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