THE sudden death of disability campaigner Dave Connor has stunned friends and colleagues at Warrington Disability Partnership.
Dave, 49, a former GB disabled basketball player, who was a well known member of the WDP charity, was found dead yesterday morning.
Despite the set back of suffering a spinal injury after falling off a hotel balcony in Spain 23 years ago, he continued to live life to the full, even after being diagnosed with cancer.
A passionate Warrington Wolves fan, who also helped set up a Warrington Wolves disabled sports club he inspired many disabled people to participate in sport.
Close friend and WDP Chairman Dave Thompson said: “He will be sadly missed by the team but has left a lasting legacy for Warrington with all the great work he has done in the community.
“Possibly his biggest legacy to the town will be the Orford Park Jubilee hub where he provided all the access advice.
“We both suffered spinal injuries 23 years ago and he provided me with great support at the time.
“He loved his sport and will be sadly missed by the whole team and his many friends here at WDP.”
Louise Smith, Headteacher of Evelyn Street community primary school, where Dave was Chair of Governors, said: “The whole school is deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Dave’s sudden death. We are trying to come to terms with what has happened and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
“Dave was the Chair of Governors at Evelyn Street for a number of years and has supported our school and the wider community tirelessly, with such professionalism and commitment. He will be sorely missed by both staff and pupils.”
Picture shows Dave promoting the forthcoming Disability Awareness Day by providing some disability sports training at Cherry Tree Primary school in Lymm last week.
Shock death of disability campaigner
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
5 Comments
So sad.. He will be a huge loss to the whole community.
I’m still in shock, can’t believe you’re gone Dave. You were an amazing person who taught me a lot over the 6 years that I knew you. Thanks for always being there for advise and support when I needed it. I hope you knew how much people thought of you. Hope you teach all the angels how to play wheelchair basketball!! Till I see you again, take care love Naomi xxx
A lovely sincere bloke with a wicked sense of humour and a passion for the Wolves who will be immensely missed by all who the pleasure to know and work alongside him . Sincere thoughts to Daves family at this very very sad time for you all V xx
Was so sad to hear that Dave had gone he did have a wicked sense of humour and was such a big personality at wdp x he will be sadly missed by a lot of people x
RIP Dave – you will be sadly missed and I will never forget dancing the night away at Chicago Rock with you one Christmas – always the life and soul of the party.