David first joined the PLASA Executive Committee in January 1995 following the merger with the Sound & Communication Industries Federation (SCIF): he was then elected for a three-year term from January 1996 onwards, and re-elected at every occasion since, serving as chairman of the Association in 2003, as well as holding the posts of vice-chair (1996-97, 1999) and treasurer (1998-99, 2005-2009).
Matthew Griffiths, chief executive of PLASA, said: "We spoke on Friday afternoon about an executive committee decision that was needed and, typically of David, he was nothing less than supportive, encouraging and keen to play his part. He will be greatly missed by the executive, the association, the industry and all of us that worked with him."
In addition to his involvement with industry organisations, David was also the current President of Stockport Local Chamber Council, in his second term in that office; he also served twice as a Director on the Board of Greater Manchester Chamber. Peter Heginbotham OBE, President of Greater Manchester Chamber, said: "David represented all that was best in a Chamber of Commerce director. Enthusiasm, leadership, an instinctive understanding of what businesses need and an ability to communicate it effectively. We will all miss him greatly."
David, who was awarded his OBE in 1987 for his innovative 'Adopt a School' scheme, remained actively involved with his various commitments until the end, bringing the same energy and enthusiasm to all of them that he had always shown. His own personal philosophy, as he told L&SI in a January 2009 interview, was "Always look for the good in the bad". When diagnosed with bowel cancer, David also devoted his energies to raising awareness of the condition: through this work he met television presenter Lynn Faulds Wood and lent his support to her Bowel Cancer Campaign.
David's funeral will take place on Tuesday 25 August at Stockport Crematorium, followed by a Thanksgiving Service at St Georges Parish Church, Poynton (post code SK12 1NH) at 12.00 noon, which all are welcome to attend.
It is preferred that flowers are from family members only, although donations can be made to: Beechwood Cancer Care via Sharples, 44 Park Lane, Poynton, 01625 873122.
(Lee Baldock)
