TRIBUTES have poured in to celebrate the life of a Thornbury man who was described as a “true English gentleman”.

David Smith was a man well known to many in Thornbury for running the men’s outfitters on the town’s high street for almost 40 years, sadly passed away on July 5, aged 77, following a brief battle with cancer, only two days after this year’s Almondsbury Horse Show, of which he served as chairman.

Alongside his business, from which he retired eight years ago, David was involved in a number of other organisations including The Almondsbury Memorial Hospital Trustees, Thornbury Chamber of Commerce and the Thornbury Lights Association, also serving as a justice of the peace for many years.

But arguably he will be remembered by most as a stalwart of the equestrian community for more than 40 years, serving as the chairman for the horse show and as treasurer for the Berkeley point to point.

David had been too unwell to attend the 73rd annual horse show, which his father had established in the 1940’s, and despite the event being one of the most successful in its history, his presence was noticeably missed.

More than 700 people attended the funeral at Almondsbury Church on July 25, a true reflection of how beloved David was by the community.

Among the tributes made after the service by friends, fellow horse show committee member Eileen Hilleard said: “He was a lovely gentleman, loved by everyone.

“He was always very interested in the youth of today, taking great interest in what they were doing, and how they could improve themselves.

“The show will very much continue in his memory and we hope to do him proud.”

Trudi Robinson said: “David was a man full of life. Even when he knew the end was near he still had time to listen to everyone's news and be genuinely interested and encouraging.

“He was kind to people of all ages and walks of life and will be missed by everyone whose life he touched.”

Karen Ashe said: "David was genuinely enthusiastic about the younger generation and loved to see the children getting involved with the horses.

“He was passionate about the Almondsbury show and always did his best to ensure it ran smoothly.”

Rob Shute said: “David was a traditional man with traditional values, a true English gentleman. He also liked a good laugh and a joke.”

David’s wife Jane offered thanks to the hundreds that came to celebrate David’s life, saying: “I would like to thank everyone for their kindness towards our family. We have been overwhelmed by the love, friendship and support shown to us.

“It is amazing to see how loved and respected David was by the community and he will truly be missed by everyone.”