Remembering David Shepherd

Created - 22.12.2022

David was a pioneer for radiology services and interventional radiology in Bournemouth.

Widely liked and respected in equal measure David excelled in providing an outstanding service for his patients and the many consultants , who looked to David for help when facing di¦cult decisions. David set exacting standards for himself, he was a compelling advocate for his patients and a visionary for radiology and IR.

Despite practising in a high quality district general hospital setting , David’s skills and craft ensured patients enjoyed a service the envy of many teaching establishments. He was a man who accepted few boundaries when driving for the very best. David’s nature and personality made him a true collaborator. David was skilled at bringing people together to support his vision and passion for radiology. David’s smile and the twinkle in his eyes belied a fierce determination to push the boundaries and offer solutions that marked him out as an outstanding and unique clinician. Many patients benefited from not only his skills but the wider technology David brought to Bournemouth , enabling patients across Dorset to enjoy some of the most advanced scanners in Europe.

David was always friendly , affable and often wore the glow from his passion for sailing. He captured your imagination and naturally motivated you to embrace his vision and passion, eliciting support for the establishment of interventional radiology and the advancement of the radiology service. We all owe David a debt of gratitude for what he achieved. His efforts have shaped the outstanding service we enjoy today. We are blessed to have worked with David and to consider him a colleague.

Tony Spotswood, Former Chief Executive

David was an inspirational interventional radiologist at RBCH for over 30 years, retiring in 2009.

David was held in high regard by all those fortunate to have met him, both professionally and socially. His enthusiasm, humour and sheer hard work have resulted in the success of our radiology department today. He sadly passed away just before Christmas, leaving behind his wife Rose, daughters and grandchildren. A family funeral was held in early January.

David had a lifelong connection with Africa after moving to UK at 10 years old, and so his family have asked for contributions to “Ripple effect”, a charity that aims to equip African communities with skills for sustainable living. Tapper Funeral Services are coordinating the service and contributions can be made online or by contacting 01202 549555 (ask for Alan Rice or Kathleen).

Clare Bent, Consultant Interventional Radiologist