Dave was a lovely man and I’m glad I had the opportunity to know him for more than 33 years.

He was kind and generous and always did whatever he could to make people feel at ease. He was deeply respectful and concerned for the welfare of others and he was always ready to offer help in a way that didn’t make you feel awkward or embarrassed for asking. He was honest, straightforward and true.

I admire Dave for his lifelong commitment to social justice, which he demonstrated through his membership of the Labour Party and his trade union activism. He was undoubtedly the best Labour MP that Chichester never had.

I can picture Dave as I write this and hear his gentle speaking voice clearly.

I’ll miss him greatly.

With love from Patrick