I first met Dave in 1993; he was introduced to me as Dave by Don, who always called him Dave. Dave worked part-time for Don, but we soon became friends outside of work as I was introduced to his lovely wife, Cherrill. Together with Dave and Angie, Dave and Cherrill were the first friends that I made upon moving from Buckinghamshire to West Sussex to make a home and family with Don, Rosie and Laura. How lucky was I? What lovely, welcoming and interesting people they were and still are.

We have had some wonderful, fun times with Dave and Cherrill, visiting their lovely home in Slinfold. Dave's interest in retro and design was just beautiful to see; only Dave could get away with creating a 1960s feel in an old beamed cottage. Throughout the 24 years that I have known Dave, I was lucky enough to not only socialise with him throughout the year, but celebrate many high-days and holidays together. I remember his 50th birthday party, when all the music was personally chosen by Dave (and I think Cherrill); what a fabulous time we had dancing the night away to music that meant so much to Dave. Music was a common interest for us all; different likes, some the same, but always a respect for each other's passion. Don and I had a small wedding, but we were glad that Dave and Cherrill could join us to celebrate at our little gathering; likewise, they helped us celebrate Rosie and Martin's wedding in 2011.

I don't know when it started, but spending many a New Year's Eve together was a regular occurrence. Of course, 31st January was Dave and Cherrill's wedding anniversary, so it was always a lovely evening - well, there was one particular New Year's Eve that could have been a disaster! On a rather chilly evening (I think it was 2009), two hours before Dave and Cherrill were due to arrive, we had a burst pipe, which flooded the utility room, kitchen, downstairs toilet and some of the hall. With no water or heating, and a bucket of water amassed from the neighbours to flush the toilet, we welcomed Dave and Cherrill, "Don't worry about it Jackie, it's you we have come to see, we're happy if you are happy and we'll have a great time!" A typical calm and cheery response from Dave; it was a great evening, as always. We were apprehensive when they decided to have an adventure in the Isle of Wight - what would we do without them? Never fear, they would have to do more than skip the Chanel to get away from us! What a delightful experience it was to see Dave's project unfold, turning a 1960s house into a design show home! We were, however, so pleased when they announced they were coming back to the mainland, but with it came some sadness.

As you can see, it is difficult to remember Dave without also thinking of Cherrill; words cannot express how bereft I feel that he is no longer with us - time I know will help. I will remember him with much fondness; he was a classy man whose company I enjoyed immensely.