He could have had a glorious career in music, but this world broke him down. “If you are the support act with a top group like Pink Floyd, and there is all kinds of rubbish on the table, just stay away from it.”
Tokkel became addicted to alcohol and drugs and started living on the streets. That was a hard existence that should not be underestimated. “He used everything, speed, heroin, coke. He injected himself in the heel, in the stomach, in the neck, everywhere. And everything was destroyed. I thought then: if he dies tomorrow, I will have peace of mind.”
Imker understands that Tokkel is seen as an icon in Assen. Most people know him from his legendary statement ‘Haj ‘a guilder for me?’. “He was a friendly boy. A real personality. But he lived in the non-reality syndrome.”
Imker believes it is important to point out the social side of the story. “Drugs used to be an exception, but more and more young people are using them. I’m worried.”
