i remember big al. when i first joined this forum he was one of the most respected members on here. oldredeyes was another one who doesn't post here anymore.
I also had a run in with BigAl when I first became moderator. I accidentally deleted two of his posts in the (then) new Advanced Members section when attempting to move them to LFC: General Discussion. BigAl was naturally (and rightfully) very upset and although I apologised to him profusively, I think at that point he started to get sick of the forum. Yes, he had his rows with a few members but I think that I, regretfully, was partially responsible for BigAl off.
As Wool said, he was a true gent, and he is greatly missed. He left the forum for a while in early summer 2004 before returning for a week or so later on that year. I think he also posted last summer in a few threads but hasn't been seen since.
Come back BigAl: we promise not to make any more fat jokes.