A COMPANY of Ten stalwart has died at home in Marshalswick after a long battle against cancer.

Keith Davey joined the St Albans drama group in 1989 and his last role was as Inspector Truscott in Loot in June 2012.

Although he was ill, he helped his wife Nicki with the St Albans Youth Music Theatre production of The Wiz earlier this year.

Keith took starring roles in numerous Company of Ten productions over the years including Salieri in Amadeus, Fagin in the musical Oliver and Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman.

In a tribute at his funeral, Paul Davidson, chairman of the Company of Ten, said: “To each of these roles, he brought not only a creative genius but also a rare generosity to other members of the cast which lifted the whole production and made it something special.

“It was always a privilege to be involved in a production with Keith and a wonderful theatrical experience for those who came to watch it.”

Paul said that during all his operations and spells in hospital he did not remember him ever complaining or being anything less than his usual courteous, humorous self.

He added: “He was held in extremely high regard and affection by everyone in the Company of Ten and he will be sorely missed. In the words of another of his friends, he was unforgettably brilliant.”

In the past eight years after being diagnosed with cancer, Keith became very involved with the St Albans hospice Grove House where he was described as a “true gentleman”.

He was a volunteer in the Cancer Information office where, a Grove House spokesperson said, his “gentle and direct manner helped make patients feel welcome and supported”.

She went on: “He was a calming influence in the hospice and was always ready with a friendly smile and a listening ear. Keith had a delightful writing style and was the first to set up a website blog of his experiences for the benefit of other patients and supporters.”

Keith had the support of services at Grove House both in the hospice and home as his illness progressed. He died last month.