Loving Tribute: Wife Remembers Husband Lost in Crash

A devoted husband and grandfather, identified as Dave, has died over two weeks after a car collision at a caravan site. His wife, Pauline Ratcliffe, shared a heartfelt tribute, describing him as a 'brilliant husband,' 'grandfather,' and 'stepfather.' They had been together for 40 years, meeting in Lichfield and running pubs and a caravan site together before becoming dog sitters. Dave was known as a 'quiet man' who 'loved his caravan' and was always ready to help others.

The incident occurred on April 25th, 2026, at approximately 10:45 BST in Whitchurch, Shropshire. Dave, who was 81 years old and from Tamworth, Staffordshire, was critically injured. He tragically passed away on May 11th, 2026. Police are continuing their investigation and have placed a 13-year-old girl and a 48-year-old man on police bail. Officers are appealing for witnesses who were in or around the caravan park at the time of the collision to come forward with any information, emphasizing that even small details could be crucial.

Pauline mentioned that this was intended to be their final year at the Whitchurch caravan site, where they had been visiting for three years. The couple shared a life filled with shared work and activities, including running pubs and a caravan site and later working as dog sitters. Dave's handyman skills and willingness to assist friends and neighbors were also highlighted in the tribute.