I was really saddened to hear of Dave's sudden passing at the comparatively early age of 72. Dave and I were members of the SLT together at QEGS for about 6 years, and the SLT was immeasurably strengthened by his wise counsel and his steadfast refusal to get over-excited about things that didn't really matter, but his equal determination to have his voice heard when they did. He was always gently understated and good-humoured and we were a better team for his avuncular good humour. He was absolutely devoted to QEGS and especially his support for school football, which was a passion of his. He was enormously popular and respected by the pupils because they instinctively recognised that whilst he could be very firm, he was always humane and fair in his dealing with them. He was the kind of teacher who would have been adored by any pupil at any school. Once or twice he remarked to me that he didn't much like a particular pupil, and that genuinely surprised me as he was the sort of man who found good in everyone. I personally will miss him enormously and of all the wonderful people I have met in my 22-year second career as a school bursar, he was one whom I liked and admired throughout the time I worked so closely with him. I know all the support staff felt the same, and he was a very popular figure with them. Once gain I offer my unreserved condolences to the family.