Rockers said farewell to their friend Be-bop Dave and dressed in full rock'n'roll gear for the occasion.

Dave Shaw, 57, of Thornbury Road, Clacton, died after a year-long battle with cancer. He was a real-life Teddy Boy and the founder of the Coasters Rock and Roll in Clacton.

Friends of Dave paid tribute to him for his unique style, saying he fought his battle with cancer bravely. And they were determined to give him a fitting send-off.

Hundreds of family and friends were at the funeral in Weeley yesterday to pay their last respects to Dave - and they dressed in their rock'n'roll gear, just as Dave would have wanted.

Mr Shaw died at home after spending time in St Helena Hospice in Colchester. He leaves a widow, Joan.

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Published Friday, February 18, 2005

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