It WAS a sad start to 2020 at Family Dental Care East Lothian, Prestonpans, following the death of principal dentist Chris Price. He was 66.

Born in London, Chris was schooled in South Wales and Somerset, then graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 1976.

Having by then met his future wife, he never left the area.

His first job was as an associate dentist to John Miller in Prestonpans.

He bought the practice in 1978 and was joined the following year by Charlie Crummey and they became colleagues and partners for the next 41 years.

Indeed, such was the loyalty that Chris (pictured right) inspired in others that the present managers Anne Wyllie and Lesley Gemmell have been at the practice for 39 and 37 years respectively, and the previous manager Mary Gray was there for 34 years.

Chris loved Scotland, especially East Lothian and all that living in the county entailed.

He played rugby for Lismore RFC and golfed at Luffness.

Chris was a kind and gentle man (although his rugby opponents might disagree with that statement) who loved nothing better than fishing on the Tyne or the Tweed or taking on the fish of the Forth from his boat.

He was a qualified fly casting instructor and a board member of Scottish Anglers National Association.

What brought Chris the greatest joy outside his family was to see the creation of the new Family Dental Care practice, with its state-of-the-art facilities, which he played a large part in developing.

He will be much missed by friends, colleagues and patients, many of whom became life-long friends.

Chris leaves a loving family, his wife Wilma, children Lucy and Andrew, and three grandchildren.

A book of condolence is open at the dental practice until the end of the month and members of the public are welcome to sign it.