Dave Cockle resigned from the role for health reasons with two new co-chairs elected to replace him

Dave Cockle (centre) was presented with a railway totem by incoming co-chairs John West (left) and John Cole (right)

The long-serving chair of The Enfield Society has stepped down from the role after twelve years.

Dave Cockle, who had served as society chair since 2013, said he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and decided to resign to focus on his health.

At the society’s annual general meeting last night (Thursday 18th), John West and John Cole were selected to replace Dave as co-chairs moving forward.

The new co-chairs presented their predecessor with a railway totem emblazoned with ‘Chair’s Halt’. Dave was known particularly for his love of the railways, having previously worked in the industry, and his dedication to improving local stations such as Enfield Chase.

Writing in the most recent edition of Enfield Society News, where he first announced his resignation, Dave said: “It has been both a privilege and an honour to have been chair of the society.

“I would like to thank the management committee for its support during my tenure. I look forward to seeing my successor[s] continue the excellent work which the society undertakes throughout the borough.”

Writing on the society’s website today (Friday 19th), committee member Andrew Lack said: “Among the many achievements which are attributable to Dave was the designation of the Merryhills Way (2013), ensuring other footpaths were adequately maintained, helping protect the Green Belt and opposing unwise development such Palace Square in Enfield Town (2021).

“John [Cole] also noted how Enfield Chase Station was perhaps Dave’s personal labour of love. From getting it listed as a local heritage asset to brightening it with plants, art from local schools, a huge mural and the three mosaics outside the station, he had poured-in the kind of care that comes from real pride in place.

“But beyond the projects and campaigns, it was Dave himself that had made the difference. As a born-and-bred Enfieldian, he seemed to know everyone and everything—which had been invaluable to the whole society.

“John concluded by saying that Dave had brought with him the qualities he honed in his long railway career: organisation, persistence, and above all, reliability. And he was still pursuing four trains an hour on the Hertford Loop!”

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