Dave West: Son charged with murder of one-time Romford market trader
A post-mortem gave the cause of death as a single stab wound (Picture: Dave Thompson) - Credit: PA Wire/Press Association Images
Romford barrowboy turned Soho nightclub owner Dave West was allegedly stabbed to death by his son on Friday night.
The 70-year-old’s body was found at a residential address – believed to be his home – in Ormond Yard behind Jermyn Street, near Piccadilly in central London, police said.
A post-mortem examination gave the cause of death as a single stab wound.
The dead man’s son, also called David West, was later charged with murder. The 44-year-old, of Jermyn Street, is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court today.
Mr West was a self-styled lord who reportedly owned the nightclub Hey Jo, as well as Abracadabra, a restaurant which specialises in Russian cuisine. Both are located close to his home.
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He has been described as a flamboyant figure and is said to have bought the title of “Lord of the Manor of Hollesley” on eBay.
He made his fortune selling alcohol from a Calais warehouse called Eastenders, having started in business selling flowers and groceries from a stall in Romford market.
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Friends paid tribute on Facebook.
Mickey Helliet said he was “absolutely gutted” at the death of his “longstanding friend”.
He said: “Life is precious and can be snatched away at any moment. I normally go to see Dave and have a couple of drinks with him in one of his clubs at Christmas.
“I loved going to his clubs. Really going to miss him, a real character. RIP.”
Jelena Gauthier said she was “in utter disbelief”.
She wrote: “RIP David West you were always such a gracious host, flamboyant man and a playful soul you will be missed by many.”
