Pals remember ‘cheeky chappy’ pub landlord
AFFECTIONATE tributes have been made to a town centre pub landlord, described by loved ones as a ‘cheeky chappy’.
David Burke, who ran The Nelson on Drake Street for more than 20 years, has died aged 67.
Known as ‘Burkey’ to family and friends, David was a keen motorbike fan, and flew the Isle of Man flag outside The Nelson to reflect his love of the island’s TT Races.
Born on September 24 ,1949, in Spotland, David started his working life as a window cleaner aged 18 in 1967.
There, he met best friend Jon Pickering, who later became godfather to his eldest child.
David went on to become a caretaker for Rochdale College.
He met his ex-wife Christine Burke, now 62, in 1969 and they married in 1970.
They bought the Bridge in the Alley pub on Well i’th’ Lane, in 1990 and about three years later took over The Nelson, where he remained in charge until his death.
David and Christine were married for 30 years, and remained good friends after their divorce.
Christine described David as a ‘stubborn old devil’, adding: “He was a lovely man, always full of character and such a cheeky chappy. We remained very close until the end.”
David was said to have been a generous man, often buying customers drinks.
When asked if he’d be drinking too he would reply: “Aye, I’ll ‘ave ‘alf.”
David owned a string of motorbikes including a Suzuki GW250, a Norton 650, and a Kawaski, among others.
He also owned a threewheeled car, and always said that he would get ‘Del Boy’ painted on the side of it.
Christine said: “He was so funny driving along in that car and would tell everyone he was like Del Boy.”
Best friend Jon added: “He loved his different bikes but ended up having to get a Honda just so he could add tail bags for the shopping.”
David is survived by his children David-Jon, 42, Dawn, 41, and Danielle, 36. He passed away in The Manchester Royal Infirmary on November 29.
His funeral was due to take place yesterday (Friday), when a motorbike procession was to leave The Nelson at 12.30pm, arriving at Rochdale cemetery for a 1pm service.