Dave ‘missed by so many’
TRIBUTES have been paid to councillor Dave Sage, the former deputy leader of Bridgend council who served his community for more than two decades. He has died at the age of 59.
A WELL-LOVED councillor and former deputy leader of Bridgend council – who served his community for more than two decades – has died.
Dave Sage, 59, lost a long and hard-fought battle with ill health in hospital on Friday.
The grandfather had cheated death after surviving a 30ft cliff plunge in 2013 and a massive stroke in 2014 to return to work as a councillor for the Brackla area of Bridgend, where he had lived since 1980 and raised his children, Jonathan and Sarah.
He had also become the vice-chairman of the Bridgend Coalition of Disabled People, an active member of the Stroke Association – winning several medals in the para games and a first in the all-Wales air rifle shooting for disabled people – and had won a Bridge FM award for outstanding adult achiever for achievements in overcoming his serious injuries.
Characteristically determined to the last, Dave had even continued to raise money for cancer charities following the loss of his beloved wife Ann to the disease.
Dave’s niece Hailey Townsend, who is also a councillor and cabinet member in Bridgend council, said: “Uncle David was one of a kind, always thinking of others and he dedicated his life to his family and the community of Brackla and Bridgend county borough.
“He represented Brackla for 22 years, where he was well-known and respected by Brackla residents. He enjoyed knocking doors and speaking to residents. He helped thousands of people in his role of councillor and union representative.
“He held many roles within BCBC, including chair of planning, followed by cabinet member for corporate services in 2003. From 2008 to 2015 he was the deputy leader and was responsible for regeneration, economic development, environmental health and equalities.
“In 1997, along with his twin brother Donald and other family members, he raised money for children in Chernobyl. They visited orphanages and brought children over to Bridgend for summer holidays. He was actively involved with the pantomime group in Blaengarw and was often seen on stage. The charity has raised tens of thousands for children affected by the Chernobyl disaster.”
Dave’s son Jonny said: “He was the best dad and grandad to all of the kids and us. He fought for everyone else and he fought until the bitter end.
“I’d like to thank all of the doctors and staff in the Princess of Wales, Neath Port Talbot, Withybush, Morriston and Heath hospitals.”
First Minister and Bridgend AM Carwyn Jones said: “Dave was my election agent for five elections and a dedicated councillor in Bridgend.
“He was a man dedicated to his family and to improving people’s lives. Dave was a true Labour stalwart and friend. He will be missed by so many.”