Over the past few weeks, we have taken time as a team to reflect on the loss of David and the enormous impact he had on Barum & Dewar and on the people around him.

David was immensely proud of this business. He cared deeply about the work we delivered, the relationships we built and the reputation Barum & Dewar earned over many years. He believed strongly in doing things properly, supporting customers when it mattered and building a business founded on trust, integrity and respect.

For those of us fortunate enough to work alongside him, David was far more than a Managing Director. He was a mentor, a sounding board, a leader and above all, an incredibly kind and supportive person.

Many of the conversations we have shared as a team since his passing have centred not only on what David achieved professionally, but on the way he made people feel. He always made time for others. He encouraged people to back themselves, to show courage, to be fearless and to approach situations with honesty and kindness.

David led by example. He worked tirelessly for the business and for the people within it, always holding himself to the highest standards. His positivity, calmness and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Across the team and from former colleagues, there is a huge sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have worked with David and learned from him. We know many of our customers, suppliers and industry contacts will feel the same. He built strong and lasting relationships throughout his career and was respected not only for his knowledge and leadership, but for being genuine, personable and dependable.

While the past weeks have been incredibly difficult, they have also reinforced just how much David meant to this business and to the people within it. The values he championed continue to shape Barum & Dewar every day and remain deeply embedded within the team he helped build.

We remain incredibly proud to have worked alongside him and grateful for everything he gave to the business and to all of us personally.

Our thoughts continue to be with David’s family and friends.