Seaford Town Council is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Mayor and Town Councillor Dave Argent. The Council extends its heartfelt condolences to his wife Marian, his family, friends and all those whose lives he touched through his remarkable service to the community.
Dave served as a Seaford Town Councillor for seven years between 2015 and 2023 and was elected Mayor of Seaford for the 2015-2016 municipal year. Taking on the role during his first year as a councillor, he approached the position with dedication, humility and an immense sense of civic pride.
(Image One: The late Mayor of Seaford 2015-2016, Cllr Dave Argent (centre) stood with several of the 2015-2019 Town Councillors.)
During his Mayoral year, Dave worked tirelessly to support his chosen charities, Seaford Lifeguards and the CTLA, helping to raise funds through a variety of initiatives, including his popular local history tours. Alongside his supportive Mayoress, Marian, he represented Seaford at countless events and engagements, becoming a well-known and respected ambassador for the town.
One of the most significant occasions of his Mayoral year was his role in the memorial service held on 16 August 2015 to commemorate Victoria Cross recipient Cuthbert Bromley, where he proudly represented both the Council and the wider community.
(Image Two: The late Mayor of Seaford 2015-2016, Cllr Dave Argent (right) with the 2015 Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, Sir Peter Field.)
Dave's contribution to Seaford extended far beyond the Council Chamber. He was a familiar face throughout the community, generously giving his time to local organisations, charities and community projects, always willing to help wherever he was needed.
Before being elected to Seaford Town Council, Dave's commitment to the community had already been recognised. In 2014, he became the inaugural recipient of the Don Mabey Award, presented by the then Mayor of Seaford, Mark Brown, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to community life in Seaford. This honour reflected the dedication to public service and volunteering that would continue to define his involvement in the town for many years to come.
(Image Three: The late Mayor of Seaford 2015-2016, Cllr Dave Argent (centre) stood with Former Mayor of Seaford 2013-2014, Mark Brown (right) and other annual Mayor’s award recipients.)
Many residents will remember Dave volunteering for the Seahaven Foodbank, helping wherever needed throughout the year and in all weathers. Others will know him through his involvement with the Rotary Club, including helping to bring festive cheer to the town through the Rotary Sleigh. To many at Seaford Town Council, he was the trusted volunteer responsible for raising, changing and lowering the flags on the Council's flagpoles throughout the year, a role he carried out faithfully and without recognition, simply because he believed it mattered.
Dave was also a familiar and welcome face at the Tourist Information Centre and the Town Council offices, always willing to lend a hand. Nothing was ever too much trouble and no request was too great. His kindness, reliability and willingness to help others embodied the very best of community service.
He was a passionate supporter of people of all ages and took a particular interest in encouraging younger generations to become involved in civic life. During his time as Mayor, he worked closely with Seaford's Young Mayor and served as a positive role model, demonstrating the value of public service, community spirit and active citizenship.
Dave will be remembered not only for the offices he held, but for the generosity, kindness and community spirit he shared with so many throughout his life.
As a mark of respect, Members and officers observed a minute's silence at the meeting of the Finance & General Purposes Committee on 7 October 2026, reflecting on Dave's contribution to the Town Council and the wider community he served so faithfully.
(Image Four: The late Mayor of Seaford 2015-2016, Cllr Dave Argent (right) presenting the Don Mabey Award to Seaford Town Crier, Peter White, at the 2016 Annual Town Forum. Dave himself was the inaugural recipient of the award in 2013/14.)
