Later, when he became a Scout, he asked if he could help at Cubs. At that time we had a boy called Andrew who suffered from Down’s Syndrome. Andrew needed a watchful eye keeping on him .... he was liable to switch off, get bored, and decide to do his own thing .... which could mean disappearing at a fast rate of knots out of the church hall door. David took upon himself the task of looking after Andrew during the Pack meetings. During relay races David would ensure that Andrew’s opponent would find David attached to the tail of his jumper until there was just enough distance left to make a race of it. The races usually ended in great laughter as everyone saw the funny side of it. Because of David’s attention and developing friendship with Andrew, Andrew’s mother allowed him to attend, just for a day visit, the next camp at Waddecar. David ensured that Andrew really enjoyed his visit. David wanted to help others who were less fortunate. He would take time to make friends with the person and to develop their trust and affection. He made us all see the benefits of integrating "special needs" into the mainstream. Yes, it wasn’t just Andrew who benefited from the experiences.

David had a sense of humour. I certainly remember his cheeky grin and twinkling eyes. He had a real interest in Football, especially Preston North End and Liverpool, and was an enthusiastic player with the Cub Team. As a young teenager he sold programmes outside Deepdale on match days. I remember Les telling me a story, how David arrived home after getting a programme seller’s job and announced that he was allowed into the ground free.......... "There you are Dad, I told you that one day they would pay me to come and watch them."

David attended Worcester College where he gained a degree in Geography with Education Studies, and this helped him decide his future career path. Because of David’s work at Cubs with Andrew, he applied to work at Beech Tree School. Sure enough David’s special caring qualities and dedication were welcomed at the School. I saw him later, one dark October evening, at Waddecar Scout Camp where he was involved in looking after 2 challenging pupils who were on a special treat for being good ..... he was smiling, full of excitement .......... and helping others !

During David’s illness, I remember visiting him and discussing whether his glass was half empty or half full. He spent a short moment reflecting on the idea and then smiling said...."half full of course!" That sums him up..........a smashing bloke who’d help anyone, and who thought of the good things in life.

Caroline, Les, Sue, Helen and Darren, be proud of David because as someone once said to me........." David was one of the good guys!"