A LOWESTOFT dentist described as a 'hugely-loved gentleman' died at his home on Saturday.

Dr David Johnson, of Oulton Broad, spent decades treating hundreds of patients at surgeries on the High Street and Corton Road.

He began his career at Birds Eye where he became a development manager after qualifying from the University of East Anglia.

But he decided to return to education at the The Royal Victoria University of Manchester where he qualified as a dental surgeon.

Dr Johnson spent 32 years at the High Street dental surgery where he supported 7,000 patients. In his later years, he campaigned against the NHS Primary Care Trust and gained huge public support when his practice was threatened with closure.

John Plummer, of J G Plummer and Associates, invited Dr Johnson to join the Corton Road surgery where he took some of his patients with him.

Mr Plummer said: 'I always looked forward to and thoroughly enjoyed our Thursday lunchtime chats.

'He brought a whole new dimension to our practice meetings, sharing with us all his outstanding knowledge of dentistry, which he had perfected during his distinguished career.

'I just regret that we didn't join up earlier with David. As a mark of respect for this hugely-loved gentleman, colleague and truly remarkable dentist, members of our staff will be paying their respects at Dr Johnson's funeral.'

James Reeder, director of Enterprise Lowestoft, praised his humour and professionalism.

He said: 'He had a wonderful sense of humour, which was sometimes referred to as being a 'wicked' sense of humour which only he could get a away with.

'He was very quick-witted and pleased to be among the people of this community. Whether it was socially or professionally, he was loved by all.'

Meanwhile, John Hillier, 70, of Blundeston, a retired maths teacher, said nothing compared to the service provided by Dr Johnson.

He said: 'When I woke up this morning I told my wife that I am never going to another dentist again.

'He was so great at his job and was always so calm and friendly.

'He always played lovely relaxing music in his surgery, and when I had a hard day at school I used to look forward to going to see him because he was just a superb dentist.'

Dr Johnson is survived by his wife Hazel.

The funeral will be held on Thursday, June 7 at St Mark's Church, Oulton Broad, at noon. Donations will be made to the British Heart Foundation.