David Elliott R.I.P.

[BTaylor]

Thanks Richard. Good to know.

[Wendy]

I wanted to thank all those of you who had written such lovely things about David. I only just found this forum, and was amazed to see all these messages! It means allot to us that Dad is remembered so fondly.

I also wanted to say that his funeral on Friday is a very open event, and anyone who wishes to attend is most welcome. There will be many other Old Blues there. Please don’t hesitate to contact me for details (wendy.elliott@btinternet.com).

All the best,
Wendy (ex-ferret) and the rest of the Elliott family.

[cj]

For many, being in the band was something to aspire to, much to the disappointment of Peter Allwood and recruitment drives for the orchestra. And that was down to David and his high standards. We all felt like we were part of something special and worthwhile. I shall desperately miss David and his witticisms (much toned down, I believe, after the girls arrived). Being as much use as "a pork chop in a synagogue" has become a a family favourite. He became a true friend after a difficult last year at school, came to my wedding and we visited each other often. I hope the school will remember him 'officially' in an appropriate way.

[eloisec]

I hope the school will remember him 'officially' in an appropriate way.

well said.

[Richard Ruck]

A memorial concert would be a good start.

[eloisec]

with an Old Blue input.

but I guess that goes without saying really.

[BTaylor]

With the greatest of respect for the current band, would it be up to his standards?

[eloisec]

hmmm, all I can say is that I heard it last year at the annual concert and it was a bit weak in certain areas. I don't know what it's like this year.

maybe it could be select current players, staff (past and present) and Old Blues who wished to take part? oh and players from Horsham etc who knew him might want to join in too.

only an idea. it would be some time in the future anyway so more planning could go into it.

[Richard Ruck]

Quite a few people were talking about this after the service on Friday, so let's hope it can be made to work.

The service itself was a very fitting tribute to David, with very moving personal recollections being shared by John Elliott (Dave's brother), Mick Hutton, Bob Sillett and Cath Daniels.

[eloisec]

I hope it can be made to work too. I'm more than willing to help out if needed.

Cath Daniels' contribution was particularly moving for many of us younger OBs sitting together in the service.

[Happy]

Julian - I am sure many of us would like to play in a concert - can you keep us posted if anything comes up?

[Richard Ruck]

Wendy (ex-ferret)

Just wondering - when did you cease to be a 'ferret' - is it age-related or growth-related (if you don't mind me asking)?

[cj]

Are there any more thoughts/news about the proposed idea for a DGE memorial concert? I'd like to be kept notified about things as and when they happen. Is there someone at school who might coordinate things (Bob Sillett springs to mind, or the current music staff)? I'd love to do a stint singing with the dance band .....

[eloisec]

I would have thought Bob and the current bandmaster Terry Whittingham would have been the obvious coordinators.

seems to have gone very quiet though.

[Richard Ruck]

Early days yet.

This would need some C.H.A. involvement too, but this might not be the right time to start talking to them (if indeed it is 'them') about it.