The man who used to supply Sir Jimmy Savile with his trademark cigars has said that he is keeping an open mind about the claims about the entertainer.
For about 20 years, James Barber, who runs James Barber Tobacconists, in Westgate, Otley, supplied the DJ with his favourite brand of cigar.
“It is very difficult,” he said. “No-one will ever know the truth and I find it very sad.
“He is not here to defend himself and no-one can defend him because no-one knows the truth.
“I would not stick up for Jimmy but he was a good friend and always a gentleman, but if something has happened I feel very sorry for the victims and their families.
“I have got good memories of Jimmy and if something could have been proved it would cloud my memories but at the moment I have an open mind.”
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