John delivered smiles wherever he went…

A trophy-winning fisherman and postman whose positive demeanor were known to residents of countless South London streets for 43 years has died aged 69.

David John Vincent was born on May 17, 1951 at 13 Elmers Road in the Woodside area of Croydon, the eldest son of Betty and Dave, and elder brother to Graham and Barry.

David was known to virtually everyone as John – his middle name – to avoid confusion with his father, and later, his son.

But he did answer to the nickname of Vinnie which featured prominently on his name badge at work.

John worked for the Royal Mail from 1973 to 2016.

But before this he briefly worked as a messenger for the world-renowned news agency Reuters, and around that time, he also had ambitions to be a chef.

This would always shine through for anyone who had the pleasure of John’s company for dinner or tea – or any other hospitality that he offered.

The result would be of top quality – and it would be accompanied by a listening ear too, if you had a problem.

John went to Ashburton Secondary Modern School for Boys – now Oasis Academy Shirley Park. It was while he was there that the Crystal Palace fan had an unlikely encounter of the sporting kind.

He went to Eagles games throughout his life, but he also enjoyed watching and playing rugby and at school he represented Surrey against the Welsh Combined Schools.

In that game he kept his opposite number in check throughout. It was JPR Williams, later a surgeon – but better known as one of the most famous Welsh international full-backs of all time and a regular of the legendary 1970s side which won three Grand Slams.

John was best known for hi slove of angling and anything associated with it. He represented Croydon Postal Angling Club, the London Postal Region, and latterly the Crystal Palace Angling Association, with great distinction.

It was while he was with Croydon Postal Angling Club and the London Postal Region that he won many club championships and cups and took part in the Daiwa Clubman finals for three consecutive years in the mid-1990s, several team finals, the London Postal Region team title in 1980/81, and now defunct National Divisional Competitions ranging across that particular events in five different divisions.

John was also an ardent environmentalist, trying to protect fish, their ecosystems and the quality of their surroundings. This was beautifully encapsulated in 2018 after the passing of his mother Betty. He donated 1,000 fish to Norwood Lake in her memory.

It was a place he cherished all throughout his life – he wanted to preserve the lake for future generations.

His son David said: “He was a warm man with a caring heart, wise words and a calming nature for all whatever the situation.

Thanks for the memories, Dad.”