By Showbiz correspondent, Karol Steele
I was devastated to hear that pantomime and comedy legend, and tireless charity worker, Dave Lee had passed away.
 

64-year-old Dave Lee MBE, who was well known for his charity work and pantomime roles at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year and died yesterday (16 January).

I had the pleasure of working onstage with Dave Lee during the 2007 performance of The Jungle Book at the Marlowe Theatre.

He was the best Baloo the Bear I have ever seen in the role - fun, funny, energetic and enthusiastic.

His enthusiasm was contagious, and we all had a great time when he was onstage. Backstage he was friendly and chatty - the kids all loved him, and the adults found a friend.

My fond memories of Dave Lee                     Panto time at the Marlowe

The next time I got to work with him was during Peter Pan at the Marlowe Arena, this time I was front of house, but I still managed to see him a lot, as he would always pop out from his dressing room between shows for a chat and a joke - half-made up and in his dressing gown!

Bless you, Dave, you made my time at the Marlowe one I will never forget.

Rest in peace, mate, but if I know you, you'll be organising shows and trips for the kids up in heaven.

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012