David Nicholson

Dave Nicholson was the gentle giant of the World Desk. He was a delight to work with and a great source of knowledge about so many things - all invaluable attributes of the ideal Chief Sub.

I was scanning the Baronial website the other day and came across an old article about Mrs Moon's and George Short (or maybe that's in reverse order). Dave immediately came to mind.

Came 8pm on the World Desk night shift and the desk "heavies" took their "meal" break in Mrs Moon's (which was hardly known for its food).

There, ranged down from the top end of the bar next to the stairs - steps many outsiders failed to complete on receipt of Mrs Moon's traditional cry of "You're barred!" - regularly stood Jack Hartzman, Ron Thomson, Cy Fox, Dave Betts, Ron Sly, "Big Dave" Mathew and other kings of the night including, of course, Dave Nicholson.

Where Jack always had his Scotch, Dave had his pints - quite often two at a time. His imposing frame had an imposing capacity for the ale. The pints flowed smoothly down, with nary a swallow, to no apparent effect other than to add fuel to the warmth of Dave's signature laugh. So much enjoyment was obtained, and so much knowledge and experiences shared, on those night desk breaks that – just occasionally - they may have extended beyond their allotted hour...

Cheers, Dave! ■