Neil Chiplen asks a million and one questions following Mike Danton's move to Coventry Blaze

Imagine him returning to society. Imagine him turning his life around, returning to education, reflecting on and coming to terms with his past. 

Imagine him growing as a person and contributing positively to society.

Now imagine him moving in next door to you.

Imagine how you feel when he tells you the truth about the road he's taken. How do you react?

Is a felon still a felon or is he reformed? Who is the man next door? Are you comfortable with him around you and your family?

Do you tell your children not to speak to him? Do you invite your neighbour in for a drink?

Do you close the blinds?
Open your eyes.

Now stop thinking about Mike Danton.

Character

Imagine another. Imagine someone else. Imagine a man with a shaven head and missing teeth, but without the Canadian accent and the hockey stick in his hand.

How does it change things?

No longer are you considering the man who the most respected coach in British hockey has put his faith in.

Now you are considering a blank face with convict stamped on his forehead.

Do you want him around you? Are you wary of him? Are you buying him a drink? Would you employ him?

This is not a question of Mike Danton. This is not a question of Mike Danton's reform, his character or his person. I've read the articles. I've seen the feature on E:60 about his change of surname and video on Sports Illustrated about his suicide attempt in jail.

This is not about Mike Danton. This is about what he represents: The second chance. How much do you believe in it?

This is not a judgment. This is a question of us. This is a question of our society.

This is a question of the tea drinking, union jack raising, Jubilee-jingo spouting country that we live in.

 Danton's incredibly complex background remains as transparent as it stays blurred. His past is documented, but the triangular story that he's part is beyond confusing. There is more evidence than usual for the authorities to examine when they consider the status of his right to enter Britain to live and work.

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