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Daily reporter turned council press officer dies suddenly aged 61

A “larger-than-life” former regional daily journalist who became a council press officer has died suddenly at the age of 61.

Dave Lawley worked at the Express and Star for 30 years from 1977, becoming deputy chief reporter at the paper’s Sandwell office.

After leaving the title, he went on to work as a press officer for Sandwell Council, where he was still working at the time of his death.

Tributes have been paid to a man described by a local MP as “a great public servant and a dear friend.”

Dave Lawley is pictured with his wife Hilary.

In a story about his death, his wife Hilary said: “Almost all of the time, he was joking around. He was a really good family man and adored his daughter Rebecca.

“His granddaughter Isabelle was the light of his life and, talking to everybody else, he loved me to bits.”

Dave started his career on the Warley News Telephone, followed by a brief time at the Birmingham Mail, before he joined the Express and Star, working initially in its Cradley Heath office.

Former colleague Ken Tudor who worked with him for many years, said: “He was such a funny man with an amazing brain. He was totally wasted where he was; he would have made a great detective.”

Sandwell Mayor Linda Horton said: “Dave was a respected old school journalist, a family man and a good friend to my husband Roger and I for many years.

“He reported on many of the big stories over the years but also championed the local area where he grew up. He was always a delight to deal with.

“I will remember him as a larger-than-life character with a true gift for story-telling who could have everyone falling about with laughter at a moment’s notice.

“My thoughts are with his friends and family at this sad time.”

Tom Watson MP added: “I’m devastated to hear of Dave’s passing. Sandwell has lost a great public servant and I have lost a dear friend. My thoughts are with Dave and his family.”

3 comments

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  • December 5, 2013 at 10:19 am
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    Ghastly news which really does make the day feel even bleaker.
    Am sure that Ken and everyone who worked at the E&S in Sandwell will feel the loss as deeply as if Dave was a family member.

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  • December 5, 2013 at 1:18 pm
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    So sad to hear this news. Dave was a valued friend and mentor. The joy, laughter and friendship he brought to any occasion is beyond measure. Always young at heart with a smile on his face and a great combination of sharp mind and sharp wit. One of the best.

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  • December 5, 2013 at 9:09 pm
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    Very sad. Dave and I worked together for many years and were also regular tennis, squash and cricket partners, usually in work’s time. He was one of life’s good guys.

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