19th December 2023
Dave Neal (St. Nicks 1972-79). Tim Hughes and Martin Searle write:
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of another OB, David Neal (St Nicks/Haydon 1972-
79) who died on Monday 18th December after a battle with cancer.
David was the son of a master at John Lyon School and always a man destined to be an academic
success. After primary school at Harlyn he joined St Nicks in 1972. He was blessed with incredible
intelligence and a voracious appetite for knowledge on a wide range of topics, both academic and
non-academic, which augured well for his school career. He was an “A Streamer” from the second
year and following success in his A levels, he went on to study at the University of Oxford, where he
graduated with a degree in History and German.
David was a keen sportsman at school, making the rugby and basketball teams in the early school
years but, sadly for him, he did not quite possess the physical attributes for the sports in later years.
He was though an outstanding all around cricketer, scoring runs and taking wickets (ten in one
innings if we remember correctly!) in a year group that was littered with fine players. Subsequently
he played for and captained the OBs cricket team for many years. He was known to play a bit of
chess but it was as a member of the school bridge team that saw his other notable school
achievement, as the 1978/9 team made the final of the National Schools Bridge competition, where
Haydon was the sole comprehensive representative among more well-heeled opposition. The team
did not prevail but making the final was an achievement in itself.
David was very musical, was an authority on classical music and a very competent violinist himself,
something that he continued to pursue in various orchestras until recent years. David was a
polymath with a deep interest in many subjects from politics to natural history which made him
great company and first choice if you were picking a quiz team, and he captained the SNOBs Sports
Quiz team to many successes, as well as general knowledge teams. He was an enthusiastic cyclist,
often heading abroad to ride or watch big races and tackled one or two of the high alpine passes
used by the Tour de France. In later years he became very interested in natural history especially
birding, the pursuit of which took him to many unusual corners of the earth seeking the exotic birds
found there.
Sadly, David struggled with a debilitating ME condition from an early age, which impacted on his
work life at the Home Office, but he dealt with the issue in a reserved manner despite the effects
that it had on him at times. In recent times his battle with cancer was dealt with in the same stoic
manner.
He was a proud father and doted on his daughter Maddie, who gave him so much pleasure as she
pursued her own creative musical interests.
David will be remembered for his convivial and entertaining company, especially if beer was
involved, his huge intellect and despite his health constraints, his vitality and zest to get the most
from life. He had no airs and graces and will be greatly missed by his many friends.
Our love and best wishes are sent to Maddie and the rest of his family and friends.
RIP David, it was a pleasure to have known you.
