A well-known member of a leading local business family died last week after a battle against cancer.
Chris Lambird, 39, fought his illness, T Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma, for two years.
He was born at St Mary's Hospital in Eastbourne on June 2, 1967, the youngest son of David and Julia.
He was a popular figure and lived locally throughout his life, in Horam, Hailsham, East Dean and Eastbourne.
He attended Groveland's School in Hailsham and later Seaford Head Community College. Until his illness was diagnosed in May 2005 he worked for the family business at
Eastbourne Motoring Centre, Cavendish Bridge.
Chris was a popular character in and around Eastbourne and, in his earlier days, played local football and cricket.
He was an avid Chelsea supporter and enjoyed many visits to Stamford Bridge as well as frequent visits to Sussex County Cricket Club, with whom he had a very special relationship.
Although living locally he enjoyed travelling and visited Australia, Bali, Canada, Spain and Barbados to name but a few. Scotland was very special to him and he enjoyed many holidays with friends and family at Riechip, near Dunkeld, Perthshire.
He was a country sportsman, enjoying horse racing and golf and was a competent fisherman. He excelled at all sports and was a superb organiser of many social and sporting events.
Throughout his two year battle with T Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma he maintained his humour and fought his illness bravely with great dignity.
He received wonderful treatment locally in Pevensey Ward at the DGH and latterly at Kings College Hospital in London.
The family this week extended thanks to all those involved in his treatment throughout which Chris remained positive.
He passed away peacefully on May 24, leaving family and friends devastated.
Chris was due to be married in July 2008 and will be forever missed by his fiancée, Julie Burgess.
A family statement described him as a great family man who got on with everyone he met, whatever their age or walk of life. "Even when he was so very ill he always thought of others.
"He was the life and soul of every party and will be greatly missed by his family and many friends".
