What Was the Story of Dave Bennett?
Information sought about man who lived on Putney's street ahead of his funeral
A drawing of Dave or Dale by Toni
March 29, 2024
Dave or Dale Bennett who died aged 74 recently would have been a familiar figure to many Putney residents.
He walked the local streets for many years after being made homeless 25 years ago.
He was a tall, dark thin man, often with a cigarette in his mouth who usually work a hat and had a severe limp. He was often seen in the Library, in Waterstones, in Costa Coffee or just walking around.
Sometimes he would sleep on Laura Sykes’ doorstep or in the passage at the side of her house.
She said, “All attempts to get him to meet with anyone who could help him get a proper home failed. He was fiercely independent, did not want charity (though he sometimes begged at East Putney Station) and was a man of few words. He did tell me his name and that he came to London at 16 - I think from Newcastle, certainly from the North. We were able to provide shelter, an evening sandwich and sometimes a bathroom. He did not drink and caused us no trouble, we just let him in every evening. He was someone's son and one of the many displaced people in our society, a sad situation. “
Ahead of the funeral which will be at Mortlake Crematorium on Friday 12 April at 9.30am, Laura is hoping to find out more information about Dale or Dave’s life to give to the celebrant. If you have anything to share email her at laura@laurasykes.co.uk. Her friend Toni made the drawing shown above.
She is encouraging as many people as possible to attend the funeral.
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