Fiancée pays tribute to 'top banana' and much-loved former Peterborough nightclub owner Dave Keetley

The fiancée of Dave Keetley has paid tribute to the well-known former Peterborough nightclub owner who made “all feel welcome”, after he passed away from Motor Neurone Disease last Saturday morning (December 17), aged 64.

Dave’s name was synonymous with Peterborough’s nightclub scene – starting out as a DJ before opening and managing popular city venues, such as: Faith; Chicago’s; Millionaires; Quo Vadis; Halo and Angels; and Black Orchid.

“If you've enjoyed a night out in Peterborough, you're very likely to have encountered Dave,” Tyisha Lannon, Dave’s partner of 11 years, said.

"He was best known for being a listening ear, making all feel welcome and heard – often following up their stories with a simple “bless”, or guidance and advice.

"Dave’s famous phrase – ‘It’s a life’ – will ring out in the minds of all who knew and loved him.”

Born in Nottingham to Olive and John Keetley on February 24, 1958, Dave grew up alongside his brother Michael and sister Ann.

Alongside his work, Dave loved spending time with his children Jack, Aiden, and Joshua, watching his beloved football team Nottingham Forest, fishing, and enjoying the occasional Peroni.

Dave and Tyisha “shared a wonderful life”, travelling the world together.

The memories they made together included three visits to Thailand – Dave’s favourite holiday destination, where he “felt most at peace”.

He was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in April 2021 – a disease which Dave “fought a valiant battle against for 20 months”.

"As was his nature, Dave remained hopeful until the end – happy and in high spirits,” Tyisha, who first met Dave at his Halo nightclub, in Northminster, said.

"He was cared for until the end and managed to remain at home until his final week, where he was constantly visited by close friends and family - and surrounded by love.”

Dave’s funeral will be held at Peterborough Crematorium, in Mowbray Road, on Thursday, January 5, at 3:30pm.

His family welcomes all who want to pay their respects to attend.