Portsmouth TV star pays tribute to David Gest

Portsmouth-born celebrity auctioneer John Cameron knew Mr Gest, 62, well, having organised several charity auctions during the last decade.

Mr Cameron, the presenter of Cash in the Attic, said: ‘David had a massive heart and was a very giving person.

‘His death has come as a real shock to us and his friends; it’s a big loss in so many people’s lives.

‘He is a big character and is very, very unique.

‘He knew how to get his way and was pushy. But he really knew how to get things done.’

Mr Cameron, a columnist for The Weekend, The News’ Saturday magazine, used to socialise with Mr Gest regularly.

‘He was a good friend,’ said Mr Cameron. ‘I would ring Sunday evening and we would often go over to Liverpool to see him.’

The father-of-three added:’It still hasn’t sunk in yet and it’s a bit of shock. It’s very, very sad news.

‘I just wish it had not happened. He is a fun and wacky guy and his heart was in the right place.’

Mr Cameron spoke to Mr Gest last week and was in the process of setting up another charity auction for him.

Mr Cameron’s wife, Victoria, was due to head up to Liverpool to watch a concert with the celebrity music promoter.

Mr Cameron added Mr Gest had always been willing to give advice and guidance to his son Scott, who was in the US pursuing a career in music.

Mr Gest, the former husband of Liza Minnelli, was also known for being a close friend of Michael Jackson, as well as his work as a producer and television personality.

He was found dead in the five-star Four Seasons Hotel, in Canary Wharf, at about 10.20am today and his death is being treated as unexplained.

Mr Gest had been due to tour the United Kingdom in a musical show called David Gest Is Not Dead, But Alive With Soul, starting in York on July 1.