28-05-2025
Tributes paid to 'local legend' and renowned Cornish photojournalist
A legendary Cornish photojournalist, famed for his news coverage, has died.
David Brenchley, known across the county, has died at the age of 80.
Born in 1944, David began his journey as the child of Walter James John Brenchley and Muriel Agnes Brenchley.
Raised in Harpenden alongside his siblings, he attended St Dominic's Primary School and later St Albans County Grammar School for boys.
Photojournalist David Brenchley. (Image: supplied)
In his youth, David dabbled in chemistry and music, with an infamous ginger beer experiment resulting in the destruction of the family shed.
A prodigious guitarist, he formed a skiffle band called The Electrons and even played with early members of The Zombies before they reached international acclaim.
He left the music sphere to embark on a career in photojournalism, enrolling at the BBC Camera Operative training school in London, later working on iconic programmes such as Doctor Who, Top of the Pops, Steptoe and Son, and That was the week that was.
Anecdotes from his time with the BBC include a peculiar exchange with a Dalek on the set of Doctor Who.
David left the BBC and initially worked for a Hertfordshire newspaper before seizing the opportunity to establish a press business in Cornwall.
Despite humble beginnings, he managed to build the Cornish Photonews business, providing news and photographs to multiple media outlets such as the Falmouth Packet, West Briton, and Western Morning News.
His ambition saw him setting up a wire service, a technological achievement for the time, that enabled him to transmit images to London via telephone lines.
David was known for "his slightly scruffy appearance, quick wit, and ever-present cigar."
He managed to gain the trust of locals, often winning stories that other reporters struggled to get.
He was a well-respected figure in the industry, covering notable stories such as the memorable 1998 Porthleven storms, the 1979 Fastnet disaster, and the 1985 capsizing of Simon Le Bon's yacht, Drum.
David Brenchley was a pioneer, remaining ahead of the technological curve, embracing digital photography early on in its advent.
He co-founded the Really Wide Picture Company, capturing panoramic images of Cornwall, a venture that led to the creation of a custom enlarger to accommodate the unique format.
David was a man of many talents, from being a member of touring band The Ferryboaters, to his love for DIY and fishing.
He was a familiar face at local pubs like the Seaview pub in Falmouth or the Norway Inn, ever eager to participate in a quiz.
In 2009, he suffered a stroke that led to his gradual withdrawal from frontline journalism.
He went on to marry his long-term partner, Trish Bray, in 2012, with whom he enjoyed a peaceful retirement.
David lost his battle after a short illness, leaving behind his wife, four children, six grandchildren, and a sister.
The family expressed special thanks to Barry (Samantha's long-term partner) for his steadfast support and friendship towards David.
David was a true legend, remembered for his wit, charm, and contribution to regional journalism.
His photographic archives stand as a legacy, documenting more than three decades of Cornwall's history.
His coverage of the Fastnet disaster in 1979, his documentation of the 1998 Porthleven storm, and his innovative advancements in technology have left an indelible mark on the world of regional journalism.
The family has chosen a private cremation for the venerable photojournalist, but his life and contributions to journalism will be celebrated later.
Further details will be announced soon.
Those wishing to pay tribute to David Brenchley may contact his daughter, Samantha, directly.
David's legacy remains in the people he photographed, the stories he told, and the lives he touched.
His unparalleled charm, wit, and eye for news will never be forgotten, and his archive of decades of Cornish history stands testament to his unique perspective and dedication.
David Brenchley, an enduring legend, leaves behind an enduring mark in the realm of journalism, woven into the very fabric of Cornwall's picturesque landscapes and the hearts of its people.
