Andy Tiernan Classics Ltd - Dealers in British Motorcycles
R.I.P. Dave Berry
19/02/1958 to 21/11/2006
We would like to thank all the people who attended Dave's Farewell tribute on Tuesday the 5th December.
The cortege left his house in High Road Trimley with a large number of bikes following, the lead bike being Rastas his faithful B31 arriving at Felixstowe seafront to see a magical flying display by a MK9 Spitfire the Merlin engine singing out as Dave would have loved to have heard it. From there the cortege weaved its way out of Felixstowe on to the A14 finally arriving at Ipswich crematorium for the 3.15 service. There is an estimate of 180 bikes in the cortege covering all types, old and new, scooters to specials. Many thanks to The Suffolk Constabulary who provided an excellent escort for the entire journey with officers on all roundabouts and junctions which made for a very smooth passage.
The service which was suitable irreverent and conducted by Dave Mitchell who did an excellent job, with four speeches by Clive "Cockbulger" Bamberger ,Nacton Nick (His own and one on behalf of Andy and Jo )and "Shitter" John Smith. There was a mixture of tears and much laughter with the truth finally coming out about the Felixstowe traffic warden's kidnapped push bike from many years ago. The music was by The Beatles , Jefferson Airplane and The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band. The capacity of the two chapels which is 190 was well exceeded with many many more people standing outside and in the doorways.
The wake held at the Waverley Hotel in Felixstowe was very well attended. The main room being full to the point of bursting. Ursula had provided various boards with photos and a good spread of food (without cucumber Dave's most passionate hate). Trev did some posters of various shots of Dave at work in Fram plus a few of Dave's notices and the workshop clock (suitably endorsed with the Whitworth name and a rude sketch). The evening was finnished off with his old mates going down to the Half Moon in Walton where much beer was consummed and the chant of "He's a jolly good fellow" was heard.
The family have requested any donations can be made to The East Anglian Air Ambulance charity number 1083876 these can be made through the COOP Funeral Service 213 High St, Walton, Felixstowe, IP11 9BQ Tel 01394 670100.
Messages of condolences can be sent to andybuysbikes@hotmail.com and will be posted on this page
If you have any pictures from the day you would like to share please send them to andybuysbikes@hotmail.com especialy the wake.
We now have a slide show of pictures from the day Click here to see the slide show.
and a short movie of the Flypast Spitfire Movie 1web.wmv
Some more movie from Mr Simon Merrin ">Mini Mashers Movie.wmv
Click here to see the comments page
The link below is to the Evening Star News paper article
Many thanks for all who helped bring the party last Saturday 7th July together especialy
Nick , Renee and the girls
John the Pub
Kevin the Carpenter
The Three Texan Blondes ( Ursie , Jane and Maria )
Justin (For a well stuffed Edward)
Phil Neal (Rubberman) for Edwards fantastic appendage
Glen and Karen Rae
John Bailey ( For the PA )
The C I S
The Pancakes
Ed Hirst
Eric Patterson (Mr Kempton Park Autojumble)
Ian Furguson
Firebreathing Danny
and all who brought some food along
And anybody else we have forgotten
To see a slide show of the Party click here
The Party went well with good weather and much fun had by all even the firebrigade turned up for Edwards monster fire!!
As soon to be seen on www.NearTheCoast.com
With deep regret we announce the tragic loss of Dave our mechanic of 22 years (Beret to everybody) who died riding his B33 to work on Tuesday morning 21 November when he was involved in a severe head on crash.(see Evening Star article). He will be sorely missed by his many friends and fellow enthusiasts.
( click here to visit Daves memorial page)
The defendant in the case was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court on the 4th June 2007 to 28 months imprisonment and banned from driving for 4 years
His partner, family and friends are dissmayed at this very short sentance
Click here for the EADT article on the Court case 4th June
If any one has any strong feelings or comments etc please e-mail us and we will post them on the site as long as they are publishable
Messages from friends and fellow enthusiasts:
I know I have spoken to you already, but both brother and I are pretty choked up at this end about Beret. Hope you don`t mind me dropping you a line , Kind regards . Simon Merrin.
They don't come much better, do they? Please keep us in touch with the funeral details. Love Angus & Harriet.
My sincere condolences to all there and Dave's family for this very sad news today, my thoughts are with you all, God Bless.
Dear Andy, Jo, Trevor & Daves family, shocking news & loss, proper bloke &
old school biker I am gutted for you all, from James Cooper.
Very sorry to hear about Beret. A great shock.Neil
Devastated to hear the tragic news about dave's fatal accident. He was a great asset to the motorcycle world and he will be greatly missed buy us all.
Copdock Classic Motorcycle Club and Washbrook Motorcycles
Bloody hell, why is always the nice ones.Thank you for letting me know.
Please pass on my condolences to his girlfriend.
Best regards.
Rubberman.
My heartfelt & deepest condolences go out to Dave's family, loved ones, work colleagues and friends on the loss of one very special person. Words are not enough for this utter tragedy, but my thoughts are with you. From Hugh Hollis
We are devastated to loose David . We have lost a dear dear friend and the world has lost a BSA genius. No one will ever fill his space on this earth.
Jane and Fred
My condolences to you and his family at this sad time. I didn't know Beret, but am sure that he was someone who was more than an employee, and more of a member of your extended family. My thoughts are with you all.ZACH SAGURS
Our world is a strange place when people like Dave (Beret) are taken from us. WHY.
I will miss him , Alan Miles the Fram DIY driver.
I'm very aflicted for the dead of your mechanicI met him personally when I went to visit you and he seemed a really nice chap.Xalba
My wife and i are saddened by the terrible news and pass on our deepest sympathy Steve and Julie Allport
Dear Andy, Jo, Trevor & Daves family, shocking news & loss, proper bloke &
old school biker I am gutted for you all, from James Cooper.
Hi Andy
Julia has just called me with the devastating news of the loss of Beret. I know it has been many years since I have been in touch however the feeling of loss I feel is immense. Some of the happiest day of my life has been spent In Framlingham with Beret and the rest of the crew of the late 80's.
I am still indebted to Beret a man who had great present and character, a man who introduced me to Earl Grey tea with the word 'It's man's tea' which was good enough for me. My thoughts go out to his partner and family at this time.
With much sadness
Steve
I sorry to hear such tragic news.....regards nick
So sorry to hear the news. What a tragedy. My condolences to all. David Rouse
That's tragic news. I'm sorry to hear it.Best regards Patrick Honour
Dear Jo & Andy,
We are so sorry to hear this terrible news, we send our most sincere condolences to you and Dave's family.
Russ, Lynn, Sue, Dot, Mandy, Jo, Jason.
Personally Yours Registrations
Dear Jo and Andy. I am so sorry to hear the sad news. Its only recently that Pete Dawson from Telemark or PDMC passed away. That was quite a shock too.
Please accept our condolences at this sad time.
Best Regards,
Martyn, Katherine and Clive
So sorry to hear the sad news of Dave Berry, we send our condolences to his family and all his friends. Kindest regards.
Steve Calvert.
So very sorry to hear of your loss, it is a terrible loss to everyone that knew Dave and loved his work...
Even though I did not personally know him I feel the loss as a great amount of knowledge leaves us all when we loose someone so valuable to our hobby...
Sincerely,
Rick Wallace
Montana, USA
We were all very sad to hear about Dave, and we would like to extend our condolences.Roger, Mick, Graham and all the staff at draganfly
Very sorry indeed to hear of sad death of Dave. On the occasions that I have met him I felt what a warm, friendly and helpful person he was. I'll bet you are going to miss him a lot.
Peter Thomas
I'm very sorry about the loss of your mechanic Dave. Anyone who uses an old BSA for daily transport has my deepest sympathy and must be a truly interesting person. I regret I'll never get to meet him now. best regards,
John
As a vintage bike enthusiast I wish to express my deepest
sympathy to Dave Berry's family and to
yourselves on the occassion of Dave's untimely death.
May he rest in peace.
Jimmy Foley
Ireland
Our deepest condolencens from the boys from Motorcycle Rescue from The Netherlands. Dave will be not forgotten and lives in our thoughts.Jack. Motorcycle Rescue. I only met Beret a few times while visiting your place, what a tragic waste of a life, my condolences go out to all his family and every one there at the Old Railway Station.
Harry Wiles
Please accept my hertfelt condolences at the tragic and sudden loss of your family member Dave. May his soul ride in peace and may God give you all strenghth to bear his loss.
Neville E Choksi
I am saddened to hear of Daves death. He was a really nice chap. How ironic it is that he should be the one to suffer this fate. My thoughts go out to his partner and family.
Richard Arundel.
Oh Andy, I am so sorry to read that. Please accept best wishes from Rowena and me. Our thoughts are with you. There are no words...
Frank Westworth
We never met Dave but we can understand your tragic loss, especially at this
time of year. We lost a close family member in a tragic accident just 4 days
before Xmas last year. Please pass on our sincere condolences.
God bless
Dave & Lin (France)
Dear Andy & Jo
So desperately sorry to hear about the tragic loss of Dave. Knew him for over twenty years and in all that time he was a most personable young man (always ribbing me about Turner's Triumphs). We are saddened that we will no longer see him and would like to send our sincere condolences to his partner Ursula, his family and work colleagues,Trevor, and especially yourselves.
Sincerely - Alan & Val
Very sad to hear of Dave's death. A most helpful and pleasant man, he
was a valuable asset to your firm. I remember him explaining how to
start a Velocette Venom, a bike which I later bought on the strength of
in part, his demonstration. My thoughts are with his immediate family
who must feel this tragic loss.
Gavin Murrell.
Hi Andy & Jo - John and I are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Dave. He always made us feel very welcome and had a genuine warmth of character as well as a lovely sense of humour. Our thoughts are with you and Dave's family at this sad time. Dave Speck & John Catton
Hi Jo & Andy,
Sorry to hear your bad news.
How old was Dave? – About our age, or a bit older?
Thinking of you
Love Peter & Nancy .
Dear Andy & Joe & Colleagues,
Jenny and I are so vvery sorry to hear about he loss of your friend – what a terrible thing to happen. I only met Dave once but I could see at once that he was 'one of us'. Our deepest and sincere sympathy to you all.
Terence, Jenny & Family
Dear Andy ,
I,am so sorry to hear this terrible information, my condolence to all,
especially the family .
Best regards, Eduard from Austria
hi! very sorry to hear of your tragic loss i have only ever spocken on the phone but a very genuine and honest guy and also a loss to the village i know so well
ted firby
I would like to pass my most sincere condolences to Ursula and Dave's
family. I have spent many happy times with Dave, and have known him for
many many years and he will be missed very much and this is a tragic loss to
us all. BOXY
Oh bummer !!!!! Will miss ya mate. This 'ere small world won't be
the same without you Berret. Go well.
See you all there! PH
Still feeling numb, after hearing the news,
Helpless and shell shocked, what words can you use?
To sum up your feelings, the most tragic event,
The loss of a dear one, and all that he meant.
A man with such passion, such knowledge and zest,
Mending and fettling, too busy to rest
So cruelly taken from us, to you I extend,
My heartfelt best wishes- we'll miss you, Dear Friend.
Neil "Knurl" Bowen
sorry Andy
hope you are ok
I live too far away to do anything, but pay my respects now
a tragic end
regards
TIM
Hi Andy.
So sad to hear the terrible news. Beret was a wonderful man. Tuesday nights
will never be the same in The Half Moon. My sympathies go out to Ursula,
yourselves, his family and friends at this awful time. Rest in peace Beret,
you will be sorely missed by Jess and all at The Half Moon.
Hi Andy ,
Rick Hylton here , you may not remeber me but I used to live in
Felixstowe , Dave was a mate.
I will miss him greatly and im sure all who knew him will , a very very
sad loss
Rick
Hi Andy /Jo what can we say, just so, so sorry , condolences to all , Bob
/Heather Boon
Tom here.
Sad news indeed, lunchtime at Tiernan's will never be the same !! my
heartfelt condolences to all who loved his impish charm.
We are so sorry to hear the sad, sad, news of a fellow biker, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, only met once, but reading the web he was someone very special, who will be missed so much.
Geoff and Val Harris.
Dear Andy and Jo
our hearts go out to family and friends on your trajic loss of such a fine
fellow who had such a good sense of humour. We never met Dave but when we
were in the Netherlands this summer we spoke on several occasions about some
British classic bikes we have. What a good bloke with a passion for bikes
and his job. Namasta to you all. sorry we cannot make the funeral as we are
in India. Thankyou for your tribute to Dave he deserved it, we always
remember him on our travels as a fellow biker and kindred spirit. Regards to
Ursula in her devastation.
Prasthan and Barbara INDIA and Germany.
Still can't really believe it. He will be missed so much. It won't be the same without him but he won't be forgotten.
Storm and Caron
Andy,
Shocked and hurt to hear of the loss of Beret. Knew him since the mid
seventies. He was a remarkably uncommon type, a most excellent character. We
are the less without him.
Gary Topple
Sorry to hear the sad news about Dave. Don`t know him personally but have the greatest sympathy for his partner and family circle. Please pass on our message to all and to all those who worked with him Ken & Sylvia Moody
N Ireland
Dear Andy,Jo,
I'm so sorry to hear the terrible news of Berets tragic death,I remember first meeting him over at the old place ,a young happy guy that turned into a diamond with a wealth of knowledge and skill there was hardly a night passed when I didn't hear him travel home as the beeza passed the bottom of my garden.I used to bid him goodnight in my thoughts.
Goodnight Beret Bless You!
Scoon,
Andy & Jo
So sad to read the dreadful news about Dave. Trips up to Fram will never be the same again - a really genuine, lovely bloke. Sincere condolences to you all - Dick Hobart (Essex VMCC).
Andy
So sorry mate,
There are no words to cover such a loss
My thoughts are with you, Jo & Dave's family
Kim
Thanks, I think we met last year's august; 4 dutch blokes on a model X matchless, 2 SS80 broughs and a triumph and camping gear. we have fond memories of visiting you all, very sorry about this.
take care,
John
Dear Andy / Jo , I am really sorry to hear the news about Dave . November hold bad memories to me personally , Its 32 years tomorrow that I lost my brother who was 25 when he died , Ironically a close friend of our also died on Tues ( same day as Dave ) from a heart attack she was 52 , So you have my full sympathy at this tragic time.
Beret was just about the most amusing, interesting, knowledgeable and well liked person I've ever known. A rare real one-off character who will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
My heartfelt condolences in particular to Ursula - Rob
Thanks for the message. I didn't know dave, but any loss of life at such a young age is tragic. ( I lost a friend myself 2 months ago, similar age , in the same circumstances ).
My sincere condolences to Ursula and family please. Regards frank
Although I never knew Beret it's clear to see he was one remarkable man.
My sincere condolences to family & friends...
Rick Gilbert
Australia.
I saw Dave only rarely but it was always a pleasure. He was one of those guys who never failed to make you smile. His passion for his subject and his infectious enthusiasm were a delight and an inspiration.
He was and remains a legend.
With sympathy to Ursula, to family and those who were close to him.
Glynn Smith
Our greatest condolences to the family and workmates at Andy Tiernan Classics.
Norwegian Veteran Motorcycle Club
Sten Lunde
Chairman
Andy, Jo, Trev,
I have just read your web site and understand that Dave's family would like donations to be sent to the East Anglia Air Ambulance Services, so we will send our donation to them instead.
Regards,
Dominic and Christine.
Dear Andy and Jo,
It's always tragic to lose someone close. Very sorry to hear of your loss, our condolences to you all.
Faisal, Steve, Pete and little Steve,
Birmingham
A sad loss, as I am sure people will agree that Dave always had a smile he would share with anyone to bring out the best in their life.
Dave was and will allways be one of my all time heros, second only to my Dad.
I first got to know him when he would have been about 15 years old , I would have been about 12 or 13 at the time
He liked Autocycles I liked Lambretta scooters. He soon moved onto the bigger british machines and from
There the rest is history. He was without a doubt the most clever person I have ever had the privilege to meet
and I like a lot of other people learnt an awful lot from him. Everything he did he did with a passion and not by half
measures, his attention to detail would amaze everybody.
He was both funny and fascinating and above all else was good company.
Good bye old friend, I'll miss the piss taking and banter, You are a true Legend
My Condolences to Ursula and Daves family
Steve Last
Beret was a genuinely good man, we are all richer for having known him. Teresa
and Taff
Andy and Jo
Please accept the condolences from myself and all at The Classic MotorCycle
Regards
James
Dear Andy & Jo
So Sorry to hear of the terrible accident,Dave was always so friendly and
helpful when ever i needed a favour.
A great bloke that will be so sadly missed, my thoughts are with you all.
Mandy
HI ANDY, Sorry to hear of the loss , must be realy a blow to lose a realy close frend my wishes and sympathy, goes to you all Andy Norton ..
Hi Andy so sorry about Dave
Andy Mccall
Dear Andy,
Thankyou for letting me know about Dave. I only met him the once but that was enough to discover a really engaging character with a big smile.
Please pass our condolences to his family. This is terrible news.
Brian Crichton
Condolences to you and Daves family.
Dave, rest in peace,
Jan van Stiphout
Sorry I haven't been in touch, absolutely devasted by this tragic news,
couldn't face coming down to your workshop, life will never be the same,
will miss his friendly banter and cheeky grin.
Sincere condolences to all of you and to Ursula.
Carl Squirrell (Fram Motorcycles)
Dear Andy and Jo,
Thanks for email re. Dave. I went on to your web site and checked out the details for the funeral.I like the dress code, suits me!!
We will do our best to be there. Dave was one of the friendliest persons that I have ever known and he was also one of the most cheerful. He will be much missed by us all.
Regards,
Mike & Val Byrne.
Dear Jo & Andy,
I was very sorry to hear the sad news about Dave Berry. Although I did not know him personally, he was obviously much loved and respected in the motorbike world, as well as being a close workmate and friend to you. This must have come as a great shock and my thoughts are with you and his family.
Mike,
Totalreg.
Dear Andy
I know how much you will miss Dave ....because you cannot work for 20 years with a one off like him, and not be blown away by his wit, wisdom, and zest for life.
We are all greving here, and can only consol ourselves with the many happy memories we have .....rest in pease DB .....but live long in our hearts
Karen , Tim and Girls
I was proud to have berrett as my freind and i will never forget the great
times we had together, a truly honest trustworthy man. R.I.P
rosey
Andy & Jo,
So very sorry to hear about Beret, our thoughts go to Ursula & family at this upsetting time.
Regards,
Perry & Zoe
Cant say how sad it is to hear the news, his attitude to life was spot on. i always looked forward to a chat with him over a cuppa, i found him a perfect mix of Clever & humble.
Paddy (pad69)
Dave and i were good mates at school and for a few years after leaving but sadly we drifted apart when Dave became interested in british motorcycles and i became interested in lambrettas.I can always remember parking my lambretta
with the british bikes outside the Grand Hotel in the 1980's and the funny remarks Dave used to make.He was the most cleverest and funniest person i have ever known,a pure genius with B.S.A's and british motorcycles.
My sincere condolences to Ursula,Ying,kieth,John,Tony and all his workmates at Andy Tiernan Clasics.
IAN PRYKE AND FAMILY
hi andy, recieved your email
Mick Bates and the family send their deepest condolences
I have lost a very good & dear friend,
David was a Genius in his shed but taken out of this environment I often called him something else. Ursie knows what it was.
Shorty hit the nail on the head when he said 'my bike is now scared, it now knows that there is only me to look after it'
After kicking Edward 'Knob Head' Turner up the arse Ride On.
Dox
Andy and Jo
With sincere condolences on the tragic loss of "Beret" We will always remember his unique humour and fast wit.
Only 4 weeks a go "Beret" was demonstrating a Triumph T110 to me with a duff mag.
We both kicked furiously with no results, all the time slagging of Triumphs against his beloved BSA. The air was blue, until finally he threw the back wheel of the Triumph onto the rolling road and gave it hell until it burst into life, all the time persauding me that BSA s" do not fail in this manner. It was wonderful to have this banter and it will be sorely missed.
Thinking of you and "Berets" family at this sad time.
Kevin, Kay and Dan at Heritage Classics, Colchester
I am very sorry about the loss of Dave and send my condolences to his family.
With regards,
Neal
Dear Andy & Jo,
Even thought I have never met either yourselves or Dave, please accept my sincere condolences. It is in times like this that it's nice to know that many people are thinking of you. I trust you will find the strength to get through this sad time and the future.
Most sincere regards. Norman
Andy and Jo
My wife and I have shared some good times with Dave over the last twenty years or so, we will both miss him big time
P/S big boys do cry
Mick,Julie,Sam and Aaron Cook
Dave or db as i called him is the most charismatic man i have ever known
what a character,who else would
write a poem on their petrol tank ,so much enthusiasm for his passion british
bikes he allways seemed happy, clever
bloke who in his own words rode "mans bikes".
It was a pleasure knowing him and he will be sadly missed .my thoughts are
with his family and friends
R.I.P
Nigel Jacobs
What can u say, I still can't get my head around Beret being mortal. To me,
and I think many of us, he was the true Peter Pan. A cross between a Sage
and a true genius. From "wherethef**kami" glasses to manufacturing spokes
for the Anal Rectocycle from bits of wire fencing "borrowed" from a field
when we were on a french moped vacance, he never ceased to amuse & amaze.
I can honestly say that without his blunt advice whilst sitting around the
table in his back room some 9 years ago, I would not be lucky enough to have
a small someone in my life for whom I hold eternal love. A truly great gent'
and a helluva bloke.Deepest condolences to Ursie and everyone that knew and
loved him, he will be dearly missed. Darrell
Andy and Jo,
we are astonished about the news of Dave.
Please accept our condolences in this great loss.
We send you some pictures, they are not the best quallity but they
show Dave like he was, loving his job and the bikes.
best regards,
Patrick and Marijke Van Hecke - Belgium
Andy,
I have just learned of Dave's tragic death. Although I only knew him during the few weeks of buying the Bullnose, I at once realised he was one in a million, a genuinely knowledgeable bloke with a heart as big as all outdoors. I am devistated to hear of this tragic waste of such a fine person. My thoughts go out to his partner, his family, friends and of course you and Jo, who must feel a huge emptyness has descended on you all. May he rest in peace.
Stuart Moser
I'm deeply shocked and upset to hear of this tragic loss of the truly unique man that was Dave Berry.
My most heartfelt sympathy to Ursie and Dave's family. All my love Sarah Thompson (Rossie)
Andy & Jo - I was very sorry to hear of Dave Berry's tragic accident. Unfortunately due to the distance involved I am not able to attend the funeral but my thoughts are with his family, friends & colleagues at this sad time.
Yours
Josep Adam
Dear Andy and Jo
Most weeks when I turned up at the Station Hotel, Dave would be there outside your workshop, breathing life into a Bike, that at first appearances might seem beyond hope.
Seeing Dave and a exchanging only a few words, lifted the day. He was a good man, that would always offer help or assistance if he could.
He will be sorely missed.
My sincere condolences to you, his family and the many that will feel his loss
Regards
Rob Flory
Andy/Jo,
Just read about Dave. Terrible news, the chap was an institution.
Will be thinking about you all on the 5 Dec.
Mark
Dear Andy and all.
Very sad to hear. Deepest condolences.
Regards, George
Dear Andy,
I don't know you, but I knew Beret for about 25 years, it's my loss that I didn't know him better. He was a good mate of my brother, Martin. Beret was very kind to me when Martin died a couple of years ago, and he was the sort of bloke who made you feel you were immediately a good friend. We used to see him most mornings on his bike, going past Bucklesham School as I took my boys in - he always waved to us. This accident was a complete tragedy - it need not have happened, and I wish it hadn't. My heart goes out to Ursula, his brothers and many, many friends.
Sally Page (Eustace)
Hi Andy,
So sorry to hear the sad news,Beret was a one off, my thoughts are with you all. Big Steve Harvey
I am absolubtly devastated by the loss of this great man.As the news filtered through on Tuesday morning, whilst working at Andy's, I could'nt believe it.Dave was a good friend and workmate, gentle in nature, modest in his immense skills, scathing in his comments regarding shoddy workmanship, hilarious in his humour! (his observations on life in general were brilliant!) there was never a dull moment working with Dave.I am going to miss him greatly, his wit, humour and skills can never be replaced.He will be up there now, giving Edward Turner a good roasting no doubt!A tragic loss to both mankind and the biking world. The Big Basher (As he named me!)
Dave Merrin
Andy, Jo & Trevor
Our friend Beret,
he made us laugh
with much sadness Kevin and Claire Day
Good morning,
I often visit your web site as a classic bike fan and have been desapointed by those bad news.
Sincere condolences.
Christian Couëraud
La Jumelais
35 133 La Chapelle Janson
France.
Andy & Jo,
Just heard the sad news & we're stunned. I've been pleased to number Dave (& later Ursie) as a friend ever since he sold me all his autocycle "c**p" from his parents house 25 years ago. Even when selling something, he couldn't help but take the piss ! He'll be missed by everyone who knew him. Our thoughts are with you all & with Ursie especially. Goblin & Pippa
It was my eternal pleasure to have known Beret, and never once over the past 20+ years could I say that it was anything other than a pleasure, to be greeted with a smile and a laugh, help and an almost boyish greed for knowledge. Be it the latin names of birds, getting dirt bikes dirtier or our last outing, shooting Enfield .303 rifles, his company was a treat. Collin Ruffles
Condolence from a french motorcyclist.
Regards
F. Peyrichou
(St Junien near Limoges)
Hello we condolence you with the tragic loss of dave berry . we did not know him personally but reading all the reactions it must have been a truly great man biker and friend. much strengt in this difficult time
leon and patrick
dutch lion motorbikes
Hi Andy, Sorry to here about Dave,a sad lost. Best Regards, Eddie.
Dear Andy we are very sorry to hear of the tragic to you and Dave Berry's family. All our thoughts are with you. Kind regards,
Anthony and Chris
My condolence to Dave's family. He was always courteous and helpful and it
is sad to think that he no longer at Andy Tiernan's Classic. He will be
missed by many.
Our sincere condolences to you and all your staff and especially to Ursula
and his family.
A nicer chap you could not have known.
From the Half Moon Savings team in Felixstowe.
Mick Stannard
Brian Rentos
Gerry Capon
Andy, Jo and Ursula
I am saddened to hear of Dave's untimely death. He stood out in the world as a true individual, proud to be a biker, british and what that stands for. He was as friendly as he was knowledgeable and of course held strong opinions born out of experience.
Whenever I came over (usually to scrounge a cuppa!) he was always keen to talk WW2 british bikes with me and help me inspect Andy's latest military offerings.
My thoughts are for Ursula and the family as well as Andy and Jo who will miss a friend and right hand man.
Dave was a character and the world is missing one now. I am sure there will be plently of bikes to mend and ride where he has gone.
Hope to make the funeral in military style.
With kind regards
Ed Abbott
Abbott Racing
Sincere condolences to all on the tragic news concerning Dave just learned off. Hugh and Nicky Hazelton
I am really am sorry to hear the sad news
Funny how some people always stay in your mind as fun loving, I can still remember the day Storm and I met Dave over 28 years ago.
His technical prowess and dark humour will be sadly missed by us all.
Whilst writing this I remember when 'bike' magazine were doing a feature on the three A10's and Dave had to bite his lip to stop that grin whilst the camera man was taking pictures. Even when he was asked to be serious Dave could not help but smile.
As someone else has already mentioned "why is it always the nice ones"
Mark Bridges
Hello
I am very sorry about your friend. I am sure you all have many memories of him that you will keep with you the rest of your life. I hope all else is well. Jim Walker
Please accept our most sincere condolences on the poassing of your friend and associate. Although we did not know Dave we had heard from people who did he was a sincere and honest enthousiast and professional. As we come from a country with a few million of motorcyclist that hold the record for such accidents we feel for every biker who passes this way and can only hope that this situation improves some day with motorist paying more attention.
We wish you the best for the future.
Yours sincerely,
Panagiotis Zarifopoulos, Yla Galani
Athens, Greece
hi andy dave berry a big loss to us all.A great man .And a great friend. wally.
I knew Berret mainly from the pub. I always found him to be a friendly,funny,
thoroughly genuine bloke.......he will be missed by many. Steve the t-shjrt
printer....'purveyor of fine t-shirts to the club'
Hi Jo and Andy
very sorry to hear of Dave`s death.
Our thoughts are with you and we will light a candle.
The sky should be full of BSAs, oily rags - no concours condition please,
engines, carburetters, tools and all the other staff he liked so much.
with much sadness
Horst&Bianca from Austria
Sincere condolences to Ursula and family, Andy, Jo,Trev
Dave taught me a lot of things which has made fettling bikes a lot easier but most
of all if i had a rubbish morning at the office i could drift down to Andys and
go back refreshed, one of the good blokes, from an earlier era
when fags were tuppence a pint and mechanics were engineers
jon, workshop dweller
Dear Andy & Jo
I am sure you know how difficult it is to write this and therefore will
understand the delay. I have known "Beret" for nearly 35 years, and
have done lots of great things over the years with him. There is now a
huge hole which I am sure you will agree no one can fill, as Lesley said
he was the original Peter Pan and you could never have dreamed this
would happen .
His infectious laugh always made you feel better. He was the best man at
our wedding and meant a lot to the whole family, he was without doubt
one of the people that I would have enjoyed getting old with.
Paul (Army) Lesley, Jonathon and Faye.
Dear Andy
Thank you for the email you sent me ,was very sorry to hear about the Tragic loss of Dave the mechanic while riding his B33 motorcycle to work on Tuesday 21st November .Very sorry unable to attend the Funeral
Our thoughts are with you olso Dave"s Family
>From Bill @Ruth Salmon olso Martyn
Guernsey
Just wanted to let you know how very sorry we were to hear about the loss of Dave. I have known Dave since just after he left school. He was such a nice and considerate man always ready to help you out. He was a very clever mechanic and could turn his hand to anything. The last time I spoke to Dave was when we came over and he made me and Pauline a cup of tea. It goes without saying that he will be sorely missed. Please pass on our condolances to Ursula. Still can't believe it.
Paul & Pauline Clipstone (Clips)
Always sad to hear about the death of someone who was so loved and
admired by everyone. A classic bike nut myself, I always check your web
site for a cheer up and a bit of escape (usually from work!!) and am
really saddened by this. Thoughts to the Family and Friends. To you
Dave; ride on brother and please enjoy the (mostly) dubious company of
my lost mates when you see them..
--
Billy Knight
Lawson HIS
Andy and Joe,
What terrible news,
Thinking of you all,
Micky C
knew him many years, absolute diamond , jesus what a sence of humour
BLOODY NICE BLOKE Reg (smallpiece) Mrs
We have so many great memories of Beret, from the prism glasses to him letting my girls paint his toenails at Brendon... We have a huge hole in our lives (as with everyone who's posted here) but I am so glad to have been his friend and had the pleasure of knowing him. Am sure he & Martin are now putting the world to rights up there and slagging off Japanese bikes..
Love to all and especially Ursie
Kath, Izzy & Roo Eustace xxx
Dear Andy & Jo,
It has taken me so long to write this as it's hard to find the words when each time I try to write I can't see through the tears. I still don't believe its true - a cruel joke that will all turn out well.
It was 20 years ago that Dave went out with a school girl 10 years his junior, but boy, did we have some fun. He was one of the most influential people in my life - a man who showed me how to laugh and laugh and laugh. His wit and humour were unparalleled, his alternative views utterly refreshing. His good looks will never die.
You were the very, very best Berry - I always loved you - always will.
Ursie - we hardly met really, but if I could hold you forever, it wouldn't be long enough. All that's in my heart is yours.
Gail xxx
Never met Dave but have followed his career through mags, articles etc a guy much like myself. Its my birthday on the 5th dec will be 56 and I will toast daves life, gods speed. Sincerely . Barry. Hepher.
Andy ,
I was sad to read of Dave's tragic accident. This horrendous thing is close to us all in the biker fraternity, irrespective of what we ride.
Steve Pryor
andy jo and trev
sorry to hear tragic news
he was a true biker
and a real nice bloke
it really is an unfair world
john fisher /val
Rear friends,
I am absolutly sorry for the death of Dave Berry .
Hervé Hamon
Andy,Jo,Trev,
So sorry to hear the tragic news - I only met Dave a few times, but what a Guy he was, always helpful and ready to talk bikes at any time
One of a diminishing category of truly decent people - a pleasure to have known, if only for a short time.
Our thoughts are with everyone close to him.
The Bailey Family.
I visit regularly your web site and even I have never met or spoke with Dave I want, simply as a motorcyclist, to present my sincère condolences to his family and his friends.
Sorry for my poor english.
With hope,
Jacques
Most local members of the AJS & Matchless club knew Dave, some from way back when, and his death leaves a big gap in the old bike scene in Suffolk. Top man,he was. Our thoughts are with his family and Andy & Jo.
Albert--East Suffolk section
Dear Andy,
i'm sad to hear of your loss,although i didn't know him,i'm sure him will be deeply missed
my condolances to his family and loved ones
rudge_racing Switzerland , Alex
What a tremendous bloke.
I only met him briefly once or twice, once to blag some screws for a BSA engine, and once at my sister's wedding.
I don't think he knew me from Adam, but the man was a legend and his death has knocked me for six.
Deepest condolences to all of his family and friends
Chris Jones
Andy, Jo, Trevor and Ursula,
It was one of my joys in life to give Beret the thumbs up from the comfort of my car as he rode to work. I always got a gentlemanly nod back. However tedious life seemed the sight of him on one of his old bikes always made me smile and feel better. It made me feel guilty about being in a tin box and I should follow his example and get the bike out of the shed. Usually once a week I'd pass by and enjoy a few minutes of his banter. There are so many occasions he has helped me out with something, got a bike started or once, late on a Friday night, he jury rigged a wheel spindle to take up some slack so it would pass scrutineering. It did!
Living behind Andy's I still hear the bikes being tested but it is so terribly sad that he's not there breathing his magic into them, and to all that knew him and loved the man for what he did, and who he was.
I will miss him greatly
Jim Overbury
DB:
What horrendous news!!
A real GENUINE CHARACTER always smiling and joking.
will truly be missed by many.
My heartfelt condolences go to his partner and family.
Andy Phillips
sending my thoughts to all my friends on a day that is going to be hard for all of us xx
true friendship never dies !!!
He let me cut his hair. He let me call him Twinkle. He was sparkly. I miss him. Love Heather xxx
Andy , Jo and trev
So deeply sorry to hear of berets sad and tragic end.There are few people who can say that they lived there life on there own terms, But beret certainly did. The world will be a poorer place without him , he will be sadly missed ,his family are in our prayers.
Duncan and Jacki
What a Loss! Berret was a fantastic bloke and I can't really believe that he is gone. He always wanted to buy my 'DUCATI' leather jacket that I had made at the IOM when Berret and I were there one year. Whenever I saw him he always pestered me to buy it, wish I had sold it to him now as I don't ride too much anymore. My best memory of Dave was at a free for all scramble at Mick Potters farm, me riding a pretty quick modern Jap moto-crosser and Dave hounding me down on his Gold Star scrambler..frightening! My sincere condolences to Ursula and all his family.
Dave Flett 'Fletty' (Ex Revets storeman)
My favourite memory of Dave is when he came to my wedding
with a card that read 'Sorry about the carp card, we forgot
the other one and had to buy this from a garage'! That sums
him up; a brilliant laugh (a much underestimated quality),
and of course a man of genius with mechanical parts. I
cannot believe the news and my heart goes out to poor Ursie.
The bikes in heaven will be running sweeter now he's there
to fix 'em.
Carolyn Jones
Hi
I have been looking at your site on and off over the past few months because I have been considering getting back into old bikes. I have just been reading about Dave Berry and in one of the posts about the Anal Rectocycle... I havent stopped laughing all day!
Helena and I have recently lost a close engineer type friend in a similar manner in as much as it was sudden, unexpected and with so much more to live for and as usual for these types of people, they were just living and giving and being themselves right to the very end.
I have not had the opportunity to visit your shop and now will not ever have the privelige of meeting Dave.
To sum up, we can imagine how you are feeling.
Kindest Regards
Helena & Paul in Leeds
One of lifes nice blokes!
will always be remembered for such gems as "MANS BIKE " or "MANS SPANNER" what a sense of humour.
Why only the nice guys.
Robert Hitchen (hitch)
I never knew `Beret` very well personally....but I felt I knew him because of the way his friends spoke about him.
He must be one of the most loved and respected bikers out there !
It`s always sad when a fellow biker dies this way, but, when it`s someone like Dave and in those cicumstances................
I joined in the cortege then watched the Spitfire and found the experience to be very moving.The silence of the mourners during the flypast especially.The service agiain showed how much love and respect he commanded.
The world has once again ,tragically, lost one of the good guys!
Ride In Peace,Beret.
My Condolences to Nearest and Dearest.
Bob Vince
Tuesday afternoon was a moving and fitting tribute to a top bloke.
It was an absolute privilege to have known Dave, RIP.
Richard Gage (Gunge)
We once spent an evening with Beret and other friends in the local Indian and to this day we are not sure if the pain in our stomachs was the food or Berets infectious humour, the banter was non stop, an evening never to be forgotten. Beret was a truly nice guy and a genius with motorcycles who will be missed by all.
Lynn and David
I can only say I was in utter shock over the news of beret death, and hoped this was an incorrect rumour that I was told, but alas this was not so. Having known Dave since working with you back in `84. I've lost count of the pint's I've had copying beret impressions, licking his finger and plunging it into magneto's to see if they were any good ,stays with me. I can honestly say my times with beret were always filled with humour and both me and Mel feel incredibly sad at this loss. The turn out at his tribute demonstrates how well respected, unique and loved he was and I could not have missed paying my final respects for any reason.
Patrick Seager ,Mel Faux
What can you say – from the FMCC shed next to the Grosvenor to wheel spinning his winged wheel on wet leaves, it all comes flooding back. Even if you hadn't spoken to him for years, dropping in for that famous cup of tea was easy, conversation would flow. It was a moving day at the funeral yesterday. A sad loss, but many many happy memories.
Richard "Stritch" Taplin
After asking for a little advice on some work on my 'Starfire' engine (late 1970's) Dave said he'd help and told me to bring the engine round, the next I knew he'd rebuilt it for me! I was still at school and had no money so didn't know how to recompense him but we came to an agreement that the LP of 'Dark Side Of The Moon' would suffice. Well last year when my brov (Stritch) was popping over to Andy's I said to ask Dave if he fancied rebuilding my B44 engine but this time for cash, Dave remembered the previous rebuild and his reward and declined my offer with several profanity's, perhaps the LP was scratched!!
A real legend was Dave, part of my growing up, as the days go on the sense of loss is greater and seeing everyone at the Waverley and the photos brought back so many memories. Bye Dave.
Steve "Stritch" Taplin – (Why 'Stritch'? Well I am Steve my brother is Rich and Dave found it easier to call us the same name to avoid him any confusion!)
Our condolences to yourselves , Ursula and Dave's family.
This is a real tragic loss of such a nice bloke. The British bike world has lost a guru, the Beeza world has lost a professor, Felixstowe has lost one of its finest characters and a friend to us all.
The funeral was a one off that only the great " Beret " could have commanded.
From the Bodge family.
Dear Jo
Im glad that so many people turned out for daves funeral,it was no more than he deserved.
I had my grandson that day of course who lives in felixstowe and saw all the bikes following dave for one last time.
as i had to drop declan off i went up to the waverley to give krystina her houses keys back just as everyone was coming back from the crem, saw a few faces i knew but didnt feel my place to stay, but once again jo glad everything went ok.
all the best
Mandy Tweed
thinking a lot of you in these days
the candle is still burning for Beret
all the best
Horst
Beret- an absolute 'Ripsnorter'. Aussie slang, I only heard this xmas and I automatically thought of Dave – 'an extraordinary thing or person'.
I only knew Beret for a relatively short time but I think he would have laughed at the sound of it and thought it great as part of his vocab, and may well have liked to be associated with such a word. He knew he was 'different' but was not one to make a point of that.
Beret is one Ripsnorter that will be sorely missed by many. If there is a 'Brit Bike heaven'- Beret will be busy and have them running just fine.
Thanks for the fun, mischievousness, and wit and try not to tease Logan too much;-)
Jo
Call for details:01728 724321 - Or email:andybuysbikes@hotmail.com