Forum Topic

Dave Wetzel

Anyone else remember the footbridge over the eastern end of Shepherds Bush Green linking the shopping centre to the station?The outside was painted up to resemble a train and this was named Dave Wetzel (on one side - I don't recall who was on the other side!).

Robert Shaw ● 61d6 Comments

I met him when he was canvassing for the Green Party (against me!)A thoroughly likeable and dedicated man and still trying to improve the world right up until he died.We exchanged texts a couple of days before he passed away. I wish I had met him 30 years earlier. He invited me to a birthday party but I was in hospital at the time so I missed it, and I never managed to put it right.RIP, a really exceptional human.

Guy Lambert ● 52d

Dave Wetzel was a dedicated proponent of the Land Theory of Value. It was a great pleasure to listen to him explaining "the cause" a few years ago in the George IV meeting room. As Dave pointed out this was a venue usually reserved for comedians. One interesting conclusion, if I recall correctly, was that all taxes should be abolished apart from those derived from property income.

Sam Hearn ● 52d

I encountered him a few years back in a non-political context and got chatting. I had no idea at the time who this charming, decent and exceptionally well informed man was because, unlike many who have achieved much in their lives, he made no attempt to work this into the conversation. Was very sad to hear of his passing.

Andrew OSullivan ● 59d

I worked for LBH when Dave Wetzel was the leader.  It was hilarious hearing all the chief officers freaking out about the lefties" getting in.  When they found out he was going to be at the Civic Centre during the day as well as evening meetings they suddenly stopped going for their 3 hour lunches.  I was just a lowly admin So1 sharing an office with the Chief Execs PA. I was doing lots of community meetings on equaiies and going local so I had a selection of posters up on various issues.  My office colleague found it all qite amusing and told me one day that ouroffice was now being referred to as the"revolutionary Cell" by our boss on the basis that Dave Wetzelcould often be found in with us talking about how a previous nights meeting went and laughing at my daft jokes. I still have two little hand made pots Dave and Heather gave me for my birthday after one of their Morroco trips. I will also never forget that camper van with the dodgy suspension.  Yes I also remember the bridge sign I used to giggle every time I saw it as I knew the stories that went with it. I will miss bumping into him at things around the borough when I can get out again but the good memories and big roaring laughs will see me through. Venessa is right he had no side to him it is impossible to have side when you know what you are saying and doing is in everyones interest he jsut said what he wantd to politely and often kindley.Everyone knew what he thought of them beause he would tell you.

Caroline Carney ● 61d

As you may know Dave sadly passed away in July and a Memorial get together was held late last month. There were many tales and much laughter and tears with people recalling the halcyon days of the GLC and Dave's role in transport and the successful 'Fare's Fair' campaign. One of Dave's last e-mails said 'My politics have always been based on love, not hate', and for those of us who knew him this was very true. Dave was a lovely man with no 'side' to him and a really genuine person, he will be much missed.

Vanessa Smith ● 61d

https://www.flickr.com/photos/25347284@N04/4381393311/https://www.urban75.org/photos/protest/m4101.html

Andrew Jones ● 61d