‘King’ who inspired gold-medal Olympian to get into sport dies

Cornwall: David Pierce, known as ‘King’, has died at 95. He inspired many students, including Olympic sailor Ben Ainslie, to pursue sports.

David was born in Norfolk in 1929. His family had a military and farming background. He attended Norwich School and later joined the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst.

He served in the British Army, guarding Nazi war criminal Rudolf Hess. David played rugby, cricket, and hockey during his service. He also boxed and skated.

After 25 years in the Army, he settled in Wheal Frances with his wife, Jean. She became a special needs teacher at Treliske School and passed away in 2010.

David trained as a science teacher at St Luke’s College, Exeter. He taught at Treliske from 1975 to 1995, where he met Ben Ainslie.

David introduced Ben to squash and cross-country running. Ben later became a successful sailor, crediting David for inspiring his sports journey.

Ben fondly remembered David’s encouragement and support during school. He helped Ben focus on sports when academics were challenging.

David also spotted cricket talent in Laura Harper, selecting her for a Cornwall Under 12 Boys tour to South Africa. She later played for England.

He was involved in Truro Junior Hockey and helped secure funding for an Astro Turf pitch. David enjoyed gardening, painting, and crosswords.

He stayed in touch with Ben Ainslie throughout his life. David spent his final years in a care home at Perranporth.

He is survived by his daughter Chrissie, son Michael, and grandsons Max and Oskar. His funeral will be at Truro Cathedral on February 7.