Dave played in the back row for the 1st XV and the Ravens in the 1980s, before captaining Brightlingsea.
He was a big man in every sense of the word; on the pitch he would worked tirelessly to dominate the opposition, whilst at the same time covering the backs of his team-mates.
After the game, he was an absolute gentleman who would share a drink with all. A proper old fashioned rugby player admired and respected by all who knew him.
When his playing career was over, he started coaching his son Jack’s age group at Colchester, with the late Rod Craig, taking over as head coach on Rod’s untimely death, before coaching the colts in 2010 to 2013.
A salad farmer in Thorrington, he was the creator and developer of a fantastic local family business which supported the local community.
Dave was one of the nicest guys you would meet. A real ambassador for the game, and what he put into local rugby is immeasurable. He was a dedicated and top youth coach, hugely popular amongst the players and parents alike. With a wasting disease the last few years were tough, but brave, years for him and his family, He leaves us some fantastic memories.
Our thoughts are with Mary, Jack, Emma and family.
He leaves a void; the kind of player you wanted beside you on the pitch and great fun off it