Sir David Metcalf CBE

David was born on the 15th of May 1942 to parents Dorothy and Geoffrey Metcalf. Together with his younger siblings Guy and Honor, he grew up in Codicote, Hertfordshire.

An academically bright child, he also enjoyed sport at Stationers’ Company’s school (1953-’58) – especially, football, tennis, and cricket. After leaving school, he went on to study economics at University in Manchester and completed a Masters and PhD and went on to become a professor at the London School of Economics – and we’ll hear more about his distinguished career in a moment from Jonathan Wadsworth which culminated in him being knighted in 2012.

He and future wife Helen met when they were both canvassing for the Labour Party. A dog attacked him and David literally jumped into her arms. The rest as they say, is history!

Married in 1968 at Enfield town hall, they settled in Tufnell Park where they raised their son, Tom. Family holidays were enjoyed in Europe, Africa, and Asia and in terms of his hobbies and interests, David’s love of sport continued into his adult life. He played five aside football and tennis well into his sixties, was a Spurs season ticket holder for many years and member of the MCC. He also enjoyed a flutter and had shares in a number of horses and a greyhound.

Helen’s death in 2003 was of course a devastating blow, but thanks to the support of family and friends, he came to terms with such a loss and was even to know love and companionship again in Clare Gowe and became a father figure to her son, Dixon.

Tom left home to make his own way in the world and met Penny. And in due course, David became a proud grandad to Emily.

The last two years saw David slow down and then just before this past Christmas, he was diagnosed with cancer. He received the news with stoicism and as his care needs increased, he moved into the Orchard Care Home. It is here that he passed away peacefully on the 5th of February with Tom by his side.

A gregarious and charming man who always had a story to regale others with, David could be forthright and outspoken at times and didn’t suffer fools gladly. He will be long remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Tom Metcalf

Robin Sanderson (Celebrant)