In a increasingly anodyne world where characters need to be larger than life to be noticed, Antony ‘Hank’ Denman was one of the biggest and best. Aged only 44, his sudden death while riding one of his beloved motorbikes is a devastating tragedy for his family and friends.

Trained at Weymouth College in the ’80s and continually working as a stonemason on all levels of project, Hank also managed to lead a life that would defeat lesser men. He was a born entrepreneur, never going anywhere without managing to conclude a deal in stone, motor boats, antiques or anything else he encountered in his worldwide travels. His many friends and associates spread across the globe will attest to his genial, honest and fair attitude to everyone.

A well respected competitor in classic motorcycle scrambling and trials, he was as full on in life as he was in competition and will be sorely missed by the wide range of people whose lives he enhanced by being such a great guy, fantastic friend and devoted family man.

His last project was the organisation of materials for the MEMO project on Portland and at Lyme Regis, where he also manned the bankers as a volunteer teacher, allowing the public to get a taste of masonry – and making more friends in the process.

Our thoughts and condolences go to Kate, his partner, their children Charlie and Tallulah, his mother Di, sister Jane and niece Bea.

A tribute by Chris Daniels, Accredited Conservator & Consultant, Evershot, Dorset.