This photograph was taken at Kai Tak Airport, Hong Kong in 1946.
David was posted to Hong Kong in 1945. He sent this photo home to his family in Birmingham. On the back of this photo he’s written: “’Neath the Spitfire’ L. to R. Norman Lycett, Maurice Wilkinson, Yours Truly, Les Norton”. Click on the head and shoulders of Norman to read his recollections of this time.
The war against Japan was over. David continued with his national service in the Far East. His talented singing voice was admired by his friends and colleagues. It was at this time that he made a decision that would change his life. In a letter home to his sister Mary he opens his heart and expresses his desire to become a singer. Click on David’s head and shoulders to read what he said in his letter.
David is probably singing one of his popular songs from his days as a 1950s pop star.
Ann Pownall was a first generation teenager after the war. She was hooked on him from an early age.
Click on the microphone to read what she did.
During the 1950s David travelled all over the UK, singing in theatres. Morag MacCormick first met David in Glasgow, 1949. Click on David to read about it.
Bizet's opera ‘Carmen’ is a compelling drama of passion, betrayal and revenge. David’s major musical achievement was as Don Jose in this opera for which he received a plaque to commemorate 100 performances. Last year Andrew Dobson sent an email sharing his memories with us of seeing David in 'Carmen' in London in 1971. Click on David’s button to read what he said.
