Very sorry to learn about the death of David, a true Challenge character who embodied so much of the spirit of the event.

I first met him on my first Challenge in 1996 – he was leaning on a gate as I staggered into Tarfside (this was in the days when you staggered into Tarfside rather than staggered out!): "Welcome to Tarfside!" he exclaimed, which I thought was a wonderful gesture to make to a scruffy wandering backpacker – it took me a few day to realise he was a fellow Challenger and not a local!

I completed a couple of crossings with David and John, by chance, and met them many a time en route over the years.

David and Elizabeth were neighbours too, when we lived in Stainforth and they were in nearby Langcliffe; once or twice we bumped into each other in Settle and enjoyed breakfast together at Poppie's Cafe in town. Always splendid company.

Many fine memories.

My condolences to the family.
David was a lovely chap with a dry sense of humour, always helpful, and a life long passion for walking and rugby.
I walked with David and John a bit back in 2005 as well as meeting on many challenges and reunions.
He will be missed.
Another legend gone..

Sorry to read this. David and John were extraordinary, and whenever I met them on a Challenge I felt I was with the Quality. Rest in peace.

This picture (I am afraid I cannot remember whose it is) was at the Newtonmore start point in 2001 - the year of the Foot & Mouth Epidemic. David and John are wearing purple anoraks and in the front row we have Lou & Phyllis LaBorwitt.

I have wonderful memories of sitting in the bar at Glenmore Lodge that year with David, John, Lord Elpus and Fenboy Coady. David put the world to rights as we all enjoyed the lodge's wonderful hospitality until the small hours.

David was a lovely man who I will always remember as a bringer of happiness.

My thoughts are with Elizabeth and her family.

Wits, savants, humans of the very finest water. It was always a joy to meet with David and John, whether on the hill or in the warmth of an evening in their company. The Twin Towers were/are truly the stuff of legend. No-one who met with them - and with Elizabeth and Janet - left without being enriched by their grace, humility, good humour and mischief. Fire-starters, steadfast walkers, always ready to give encouragement and a helping hand. We shall not see their like again.

Perfectly expressed Humphrey, my sentiments exactly.