A farmer by heritage, the man behind of one of Norfolk’s most prominent charities has become testament to the power of giving back.
Co-founder of the Big C, David Moar was awarded an MBE in 2009 for his outstanding contributions to cancer services in Norfolk.
But his legacy extends far beyond awards and, following his death earlier this year, it will be his warmth, tenacity and community spirit that he will be remembered for.
SERVICE AND PURPOSE
Born in 1950 into a farming family, whose heritage can be traced back to the Orkney Islands, David’s life was profoundly influenced by his agricultural past.
Although he initially pursued a career in engineering, his passion for farming inevitably guided his professional journey.
His roles at Loddon Farmers and Anglia Farmers Limited showcased his business acumen, contributing to the growth of the agricultural sector both locally and nationally.
David began his professional journey in engineering at Browne and Sons Loddon Ltd, later advancing to roles with Mann Egerton’s Rolls Royce and Bentley division and Averills, where he managed services for Jeep’s emerging four-wheel drive market.
His drive for personal growth led him to evening classes at Norwich City College, laying the foundation for a diverse and impactful career.
David’s life took an unexpected turn when, aged 27, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer that later spread to his lungs.
This life-altering experience led to a pivotal encounter with fellow patient Clive Bamford.
Together, they turned their cancer experiences into a mission to transform cancer care in Norfolk, striving to match London standards and bring quality treatment and cancer support closer to home.
BIG C CANCER CHARITY
Founded in 1980 by David and Clive, what began as a fundraising appeal for chemotherapy equipment and a cancer ward at the old Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, has grown into one of East Anglia’s leading independent cancer charities.
Its Big C support centres across the county, and virtual centre created during the pandemic, support thousands of local people affected by cancer with wraparound emotional and practical help including free counselling and complementary therapies.
David played a key role in every milestone.
His unwavering belief in the power of science has seen Big C invest £12.5million in world-class cancer research.
Reflecting on his journey, David once said: “Sometimes I think we all have a purpose in this world and I wonder whether I was ill to create Big C as it is today.”
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Beyond Big C, David’s career reflected his multifaceted talents.
Despite health battles, he transitioned into teaching at City College Norwich, inspiring young minds in engineering before returning to his agricultural roots, serving as a training officer for Loddon Farmers and eventually rising to general manager.
His strategic acumen was instrumental in the formation of Anglia Farmers Ltd, where as business development manager he helped grow the business from £27million to £250million.
His belief in food security and support for British agriculture was unwavering, and he always travelled with a Big C leaflet in his pocket.
'UNWAVERING DETERMINATION AND COMPASSION’
Karen Vincent, Big C’s chief executive, paid tribute to David follow his death at the Norwich and Norwich Hospital.
She said: “David was more than a co-founder of Big C - he was its heart with a unique gift for making people feel seen and valued. His optimism lifted spirits and his humour put people at ease.
“His vision, born from personal adversity, has transformed cancer care for thousands of people in Norfolk and beyond.
“David’s unwavering determination and compassion have created a legacy that not only brought cancer treatment closer to home but helped to advance world-class research right here in Norfolk at the Norwich Research Park.”
Echoing those sentiments, Professor Dylan Edwards, Big C’s chair of trustees, added: “David was a larger than life character in so many ways.
“A big, gentle man with a great farmer’s handshake, whose cheerfulness and optimism were infectious. He could talk to anyone from a shy child to His Majesty the King.
“He relished life and lived it to the fullest and helping people was one of his greatest pleasures.
“David will be forever missed, but his legacy lives on through the charity he founded to support anyone affected by cancer.”
A FAMILY MAN
Beyond his professional achievements, David was a devoted family man and leaves behind his beloved wife Carolyn, son James, sister Davina and countless friends and colleagues whose lives have been touched by his courage and kindness.
Paying tribute, his family said: “David was a devoted husband and father. His passion for helping others and his belief in the importance of local support for those facing cancer were at the heart of everything he did.”
David’s legacy is one of courage, compassion and an indomitable spirit and his was a life of purpose, vision and extraordinary impact.
As he himself once said, it was "a heck of a journey".
David has left an indelible mark and his legacy lives on through Big C and Norfolk’s farming community inspiring generations to come.
A service of thanksgiving to celebrate David’s life will be held at Norwich Cathedral on Thursday, September 4 at 2pm.
An online memorial page has been created at https://davidmoar.memorypage.org for those wishing to share memories or donate to Big C in David’s memory.
- For those affected by cancer, help is available through Big C at www.big-c.co.uk, by calling 0800 092 7640 or by emailing support@big-c.co.uk
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