The Sun team farewell our most loyal friend and columnist, Diesel, who passed away suddenly but peacefully on Wednesday. Our best big brown buddy; self-appointed lunch box monitor and celebrity was aged 12.

He had a massive fan base, due to the Dining with Diesel column that he co-authored with Tony Breeds.
In recent years Diesel has been working hard for good causes, promotions and was guest at many meetings and speaking engagements in the region.
Only on Wednesday morning his highly successful campaign to collect petfood donations for Christchurch earthquake animal victims was dispatched south.
Our thanks go to the many people who read and supported his column, to the Sun staff for their love, attention and accommodating attitude to the big guy; to Mick and Jean for having him on his 'days off”, to Tony and Ady for their wonderful support; and his loyal and fanatical readers. Our appreciation to the wonderful team at Mobile Vet.