Tributes paid to Eggheads quiz star
TRIBUTES have paid to a Mancunian star on TV quiz show Eggheads who has died.
David Rainford, known as Dave, from Withington, was one of the resident quizzers on the popular teatime BBC show and earned the nickname ‘Tremendous Knowledge’.
A well-known character in south Manchester, he said he was even banned from the quiz machines in some pubs such was his skill at quizzing.
His death was confirmed yesterday by the show’s host Jeremy Vine amongst others.
Jeremy said on Twitter: “I’m very sad to hear that one of the Eggheads has died. Dave “Tremendous Knowledge” Rainford, famous for being banned from pub quiz machines in Manchester, was the best company after a recording: always fun and sociable.
“I never saw him angry or ungenerous, not once. RIP.”
Former teammate on the show CJ de Mooi said: “I’ve just been informed that Dave Rainford (from a certain quiz show we used to appear on together) has died.
“My sincere condolences to his family and friends. RIP Dave.”
Former BBC entertainment commissioner Sohail Shah said: “So upset to hear the lovely Dave Rainford from #Eggheads has passed away.
“He was a Mancunian legend and did us proud on the show. Such a loss. #RIPDaveRainford”
Former Hacienda DJ and now author Dave Haslam described him as “one of the great Manchester characters, who ruled the pub quizzes at the Old House At Home on Burton Road.”
Former M.E.N journalist Simon Binns said: “Ah man. Used to enjoy a beer with Dave in The Red Lion in Withington back in the day. Lovely bloke. RIP x”
Colleagues on rival shows also joined in the chorus of tributes.
The Chase’s Paul Sinha said: “Devastated at the loss of my friend, David Rainford. ‘Egghead, great bloke, great friend. We had blindingly good nights out mate. X.”
Anne Hegerty said: “Very sad to learn that Tremendous Knowledge Dave Rainford of #Eggheads has died. One of the nicest people I ever knew. Never a bad word about anyone.”
It has not been confirmed how or when Dave died. He had told viewers he was battling illness when they noticed his absence.