David Bird RIP

[TF_Kevin W]

Some of you may remember David Bird, president of the NFA during the mid-1980s.

It is my sad duty to report that David died this morning after a short battle with cancer.

RIP my friend.

[TF_Waveney One]

Sad to hear that. He had some ideas but always seemed to be battling to move things forward.

[JonnyO]

Turbo Birdy RIP.

One of fishings real characters. Had some great times with him fishing at Blenheim Palace,Rye Nook & on the Rother.

[TF_geepsterParticipant]

One of the south’s great match organisers back in the days. RIP.

[TF_Croydon_Dave]

David Bird inspired and encouraged me to run open matches. Without his influence, there would have never been the San Miguel, Abbot Ale matches of the 1980s and indeed the revived Lower Thames Championships.

I have spoken to Chris Dulley (Dulley Ceilings and Partitions)and need to speak to others but would like to dedicate this year’s match in David’s memory.

I was fortunate to be able to write to David before he passed away and recalled the Rye & DAS Festivals when they attracted big fields. One of the problems they had on the Rother was anglers leaving the farm gates open.

So I was able to say to David: ‘Thank you for all you you have done for this great sport of ours. I am in no doubt that when you reach the Pearly Gates you will turn to the person behind you and say: “CLOSE THE BLOODY GATE!”‘

[TF_NW Cut Angler]

An outstanding figure in angling who really fought hard to modernise and popularise match angling. RIP

[TF_jwb]

Remember some lively NFA conferences with Dave present.
RIP

[TF_Swimfeeder]

I only met David Bird once, and that was when he was the President of the old NFA,in the days when membership was high, I was fishing my first NFA National on the river Severn, Trev’s won it, David stopped to talk to me, to say I was flattered is an understatement, I was also in awe of the man.

Angling, and in particular anglers, did not deserve David Bird, he was too good for it/us, all of his hard work, commitment and determination to bring angling kicking and screaming into the 21st century was barely acknowledged by the rank and file, and he suffered the same fate many a good and true man does at the hands of ingrates, angling has lost a true legend, but true to form, it has barely registered among the majority of anglers.

Thank you so much for all you did David, and rest in peace for eternity……God, at least, knows you deserve to.

[TF_Croydon_Dave]

Well said Swimfeeder. If it wasn’t for people like David Bird, the lead shot crisis could have overwhelmed us. He was the voice of reason

[TF_Stewart]

RIP Dave, you will be sadly missed. It was always great to have a chat with you in days gone by.

[Sarah]

How sad and how he’ll be missed. Thanks for everything you’ve done for our sport RIP David xx

[TF_Ruth]

For those wishing to show their respects, in Davids own words, and underlined by his widow, Maggi:
“Tell ’em to forget the cards and flowers, just get ’em to bung something to Stoney instead”

So, if you would care to contribute a little something in memory of David Bird and at the same time help those still living with cancer, please click on the link below and donate where you can.

Thank you in advance

http://www.justgiving.com/stoneyandfriends-davidbird

[JLA14978]

Very sad to hear this. His influence goes very deep into the angling world and his contribution to the sport must not be forgotten. I probably wouldn’t be a qualified NFA angling coach were it not for him so he has had an influence on me personally that i won’t forget. Best wishes to his family.

[TF_Ruth]

David’s widow, Maggi, has organised a beautiful tribute website in loving memory of her husband.

If you wish to contact Maggi, pay your respects, donate to David’s chosen charity, share your photos and stories or actively contribute to a celebration of Davids life, please click the link below:

http://www.davidbird-thelastword.co.uk
__________________

[TF_tomlegge]

Sad news indeed

In my fledgling days as a News Reporter on AM Birdy unfailingly encouraged me, kept me informed, and was always available for quotes (always on the record!) whatever the day or time. He also ticked me off occasionally (deservedly).

I once travelled to Denmark with David and the also late-lamented Dennis Salmon. I was grateful that his car was air conditioned, and that’s from a fellow smoker!

David’s impact and influence on angling politics in the UK and Europe over the past 3 to 4 decades has been immense in my opinion. I hope the mags do him justice with their Obits.

RIP El Presidente

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