Dave Blackman’s death will leave an empty slot on the next Beatles Day set list, and also an unfillable hole in the local music scene.

Graham How, one of the organisers of Beatles Day said:

"Dave was always up for taking part in Beatles Day, or indeed, any charity event. He was very generous giving his talent to support many good causes. His sets were always a popular part of the Beatles Day proceedings" 

"Dave was a true gentleman, a thoroughly nice bloke and a hugely talented musician.
His death will leave a huge hole in the local music scene and I am sure everybody involved in music here in Hastings would agree."

Pete Prescott, instigator of the Beatles Days, and last month’s Smooth Sundae, where Dave was scheduled to play the day after his sudden death, paid tribute:

 "We've lost a real big character, and a great singer/songwriter, guitar player and drummer.

It was very difficult at Smooth Sundae for so many musicians to put on the best show they could after hearing such terrible news.

Dave did some wonderful sets at Beatles Days.  When he sang 'A Day In The Life' it made the hairs go up on the back of my neck.

They say a man's life can be measured by the impact of his passing - what he achieved, who he touched and how many people are better off for having known him.  I hope he's looking down to see the tears being shed over him.

The town has lost one of its best."