I first met Dave in 2002 when working at Gateshead Council. My first impressions were of a genuinely nice man who went out his way to help me and a mutual love for Newcastle United. 

Gateshead Council were really fortunate to have Dave working for them. He was often the first person to speak to people at reception. They should have renamed his role as “Director of First Impressions”. I have never come across someone who made people so much at ease, who was able to converse with people so easily no matter what their background! What a wonderful ability to have! Just speaking to Dave would brighten your day!

I know how much he loved his Jags! It was luxurious to get a lift from him! He would always offer a lift as he was so kind!

Going on a half hour lunch break with Dave was an interesting experience as he would always bump into people he knew and have a conversation with them. Dave seemed to know everyone! Lunch breaks always went on a little longer because of this.

A particular memory of Dave was his Orlando Magic basketball jacket he used to wear. We used to joke with him about it but he would just laugh.

I was really happy for Dave that he was able to take early retirement/voluntary redundancy. It meant he was able to spend more time with his family (especially his Grandchildren) and to enjoy his archery. I knew how much he loved his family and would always talk proudly about them. 

I was really proud of him when he became archery GB chairman. He very kindly invited me to Lords Cricket Ground for a test event for the forthcoming 2012 Olympics. He was in his element organising everything. The respect he commanded was amazing. You could just see how good a communicator he was and how much time he had for people. He even did an interview on Test Match Special!

I will conclude in saying how much I was privileged to know Dave and count him as a friend. Dave made the world a better place and made peoples lives better. He could converse easily with anyone, from Olympic officials and VIPs to the bloke on the street. He was a fantastic listener and always gave great advice. I will miss him dearly. However, the memories of Dave will always bring a smile to my face and I will remember him for the rest of my life.

Iain Armstrong