David Arscott, a beloved BBC radio personality and prolific author, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 81. His sudden death occurred on November 29th after a game of tennis, a fitting end for a man who embraced life with vigor and passion. Arscott’s career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the Sussex community through his work in radio, his numerous books, and his active involvement in local life. Known for his warm voice, his engaging storytelling, and his genuine love for the people and history of Sussex, Arscott’s legacy extends far beyond his professional accomplishments. His wife Jill remembers him as a man who rarely judged others, finding joy in connecting with people from all walks of life. This quality, combined with his sharp wit and keen eye for detail, made him an exceptional communicator and a cherished member of the community.
Arscott’s journey began in journalism, working for newspapers in London, Dorset, and even Caracas, Venezuela before finding his true calling in radio. He joined Radio Brighton, later renamed Radio Sussex, in the mid-1970s. It was there that his talent for storytelling truly blossomed, captivating listeners with his engaging broadcasts and insightful commentary. His time at the BBC allowed him to connect with the local community on a deeper level, sharing their stories and celebrating the rich history and vibrant culture of Sussex. Even after leaving the BBC in 1991, Arscott maintained his commitment to sharing the stories of Sussex, dedicating himself to writing and publishing over 40 books on the region.
Arscott’s love for Sussex was evident in everything he did. He immersed himself in the local community, creating a beautiful garden in the town center of Lewes and becoming a proud supporter of Lewes FC for 25 years. He found inspiration in the everyday lives of the people around him, as well as in the historical records of the region, often finding humor in the quirky details of the past. This passion for local history and culture permeated his work, informing his writing and broadcasting with a unique perspective and a deep sense of connection to the place he called home.
Beyond his professional achievements, David Arscott was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Jill, seven children, and ten grandchildren, all of whom cherish his memory and the indelible mark he left on their lives. Jill’s touching tribute paints a picture of a man who was both deeply intelligent and genuinely kind, a rare combination that endeared him to all who knew him. She recalls his love for radio as the “best job he ever had,” highlighting his ability to connect with people through the spoken word. She also remembers his meticulous attention to detail, recalling how a misplaced comma could ruffle his feathers.
Jill shared anecdotes that showcased Arscott’s wit and his ability to find humor in the unexpected. She recalled a memorable incident during a live radio phone-in program where a caller, instead of posing a question on education, reported a lost parrot. This, Jill explains, was a common occurrence in the early days of radio, when calls for lost pets often got mixed up with those intended for other programs. These stories, while humorous, also provide a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of working in radio during that era, a time when razor blades were used for editing and lost snippets of tape were often fished out of wastepaper baskets.
David Arscott’s life was a tapestry woven with threads of passion, dedication, and a deep love for the people and places he encountered. His work in radio, his prolific writing, and his active involvement in the community all contributed to a rich legacy that will continue to inspire and resonate with generations to come. He was a storyteller, a historian, a community member, and a beloved family man, whose warm voice and engaging spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His life serves as a testament to the power of connection, the importance of community, and the enduring impact of a life well-lived.
