Well I think I am just as devastated and shocked by the news as everyone else is in our little community. Daz enriched so many peoples lives and I regarded him as not just a top friend but someone who I admired and respected as a runner and as a person. We shared many great experiences in the mountains and I will always fondly remember reaching the summit of Ben Nevis together in the 2009 race and trying like hell to keep up with him on the descent. Alas he kicked my arse! He was always encouraging others and I was no different. He helped me develop as a runner and was always there to help me out when I needed it.

One thing I will add is that I happened to be on the same leg as Daz yesterday and the compassion showed by other runners and people out on the hill was immense and very heart warming. Its going to be tough for a while but I'm sure if we all stay positve we can celebrate his life and honour him the way he would like to be remembered.

Rest in peace mate, I'll miss you.

Andy Fleet
Calder Valley Fell Runners