'Shaking hands with Muhammad Ali was like putting my hand into a bucket' - Sunderland man's memory of meeting the legend

As the world mourns legend Muhammad Ali, those lucky enough to meet the man on his visit to the North East are remembering the special moment.
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Jack Clark, 76, of Gowanburn, Fatfield, met Ali at a reception at the Gosforth Park Hotel in Newcastle.

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Read more: When Muhammad Ali graced the North East

"I shook hands with him - it was like putting my hand into a bucket," he said. "You can't describe him - it was absolutely wonderful."

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"He was so quiet - he just came in and walked down the aisle, shaking hands with everybody on both sides.

"He was just a nice man."

Jack was given the tickets by a neighbour, who was unable to attend

"We were on a table with Bob Moncur and Freddy Shepherd," he said.

Echo readers have also been paying tribute to the "Louisville Lip" on our Facebook page

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Susan Ophield said: "I'm gutted so much respect for you been my idol from been little you always filled the ring with magic and out of the ring your interlect your quotes and your tenacity and strength fighting Parkinsons youl never be forgotten what a man and what a legacy you've left behind youl be up there with the best now next to my lovely dad your no 1 fan x"

James Dutton RIP said. "Legend of the highest order."

Dawn Mustard said: "Another one gone this year. RIP."