Website tells of Dave's 'remarkable' lady

Chas Hodges, one half of cockney duo Chas and Dave, today paid tribute to his colleague's wife after she lost her fight with cancer.

The moving comments come after Dave Peacock pulled out of a gig that was due to take place in Ludlow tomorrow.

And Chas reassured fans that he will continue with the performance at Ludlow Assembly Rooms and with Dave's support he will be taking over the show and performing solo.

In a statement issued on the duo's website, Chas paid tribute to Sue, who was 62, as a remarkable person who was loved by all who knew her.

The statement read: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of Sue Peacock - Dave's wife of 36 years - on July 4 after a brave battle with lung cancer.

"Despite being a lifelong non-smoker, she was diagnosed with the disease at an advan-ced stage last November. Sue was quite simply a remarkable human being. Loved by anyone who was lucky enough to know her, she never had a negative point of view on anyone or anything even as it became clear she was losing her fight for life."

It added: "To say that her death leaves a gaping hole in the lives of so many is an understatement beyond compare. Our thoughts are with all who were close to her at this incredibly sad time."

The pair's spokesman, Barry Collings, confirmed that the performance would go ahead without Dave. Tickets cost £17.50. For details, call (01584) 878141.