Friends and family have paid tribute to a devout Christian and member of a Frinton church who died while on a weekend retreat with church members.

David Poole, 88, of Ashlyns Road, had just finished giving a testimony of his life to fellow parishioners at Frinton Parish Church when he died of a heart attack.

The Rev Simon Gill, of the church in Old Road, has told how the generous and well-liked man had just told people on the trip to Hengrave Hall in Suffolk about his life from childhood, when he collapsed.

He said: "He shared his story about how the Bible had influenced his life and how much the people in the church meant to him. He shared it all right before the end."

Frances Allen, organiser of the trip, said the timing of his death was a moving moment for everyone.

She said: "It was very poignant but sad for the people there. They felt sad for David. It was so lovely as well."

The formal Royal Navy officer, who who was a gunboat captain in the Second World War, was taken to West Suffolk Hospital, Bury St Edmunds.

Mr Poole moved to Frinton with his late wife, Joan, 24 years ago. She died four years ago.

He was born into a poor East End family but was given help by the Eton Boys' Club by way of education and eventually became a company secretary in London.

He received a number of commendations for his service during the war.

His nephew, John Bishop, who lives in Berkshire, said his generous uncle gave many contributions to charity.

He leaves family, including two nephews.

There will be a funeral at Weeley Crematorium on Wednesday, followed by a service at Frinton Parish Church

Published Friday, April 18, 2003

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