Say hello to Dave the Rave — a well-known figure in the East End of London’s nostalgic scene. Dave isn't your typical collector — he’s a lifelong hunter of neon signs that once lit up theatres across the UK. Since his teenage years, Dave has been hunting through junkyards, tracking down authentic neon signs - blog post from justpaste.it,. He often shares stories about how he got hooked on neon lights — it all started with a flickering "Open" sign above a fish and chip shop in Bethnal Green.

That triggered a fascination that would soon become a obsession. Dave’s collection is now one-of-a-kind. He stores his finds in a converted warehouse studio in Hackney, filled wall-to-wall with pulsing signage from the '50s through to the early 2000s. Some signs are fully restored; others retain the faded charm of their golden era. Each piece tells a fragment of London’s history — and Dave is the curator. As Dave puts it, neon signs are "urban jewellery." They’re not just lights, they’re living art of a rapidly-changing cityscape.

Dave doesn't keep for himself. He’s also been featured in local galleries, lending pieces for curation. His Instagram, full of glowing snapshots and stories, has become a hub for neon lovers worldwide. What makes Dave’s passion even more remarkable is how he’s preserving London’s past. In a world where LEDs are replacing everything, he believes in the handmade touch of gas-filled glass tubes. "You can’t replicate that hum or flicker with modern lights," he often says.

He’s also training younger artists and lighting enthusiasts, helping to continue the legacy. His workshop hosts classes in retro light design. From Soho to Shoreditch, Dave the Rave is a respected figure. People still call him when they spot neon signs being ripped down. He’s the go-to rescuer of London’s neon soul. Whether you're into urban exploration or just love the glow of neon, Dave’s journey is one to follow.

And in his words, "If it glows, I’m going after it."