A MEMORIAL for a man dubbed a towns mascot was unveiled as cash was donated to a mental health charity.

A ceremony was held to unveil the plaque for John Daines, known affectionately as “laughing John”, outside Star Cafe in Rayleigh High Street on Wednesday.

Mr Daines, who died in June 2019, was well known in the area for his distinctive laugh and outgoing personality.

Kevin Hadlow, 52, from Rayleigh, Darren and Donna Murrell and Michelle Collier were among the residents who worked to arrange the memorial.

The campaigners were joined by Keeley Hood from South East and Central Essex Mind and Chairman Rayleigh Town Council Robert Milne.

Mr Hadlow said: "It was a great turnout from Rayleigh residents to see the unveiling of the memorial plaque for Laughing John Daines, almost two years to the day of his passing.

"I gave a short speech as an introduction to the unveiling of the plaque by the chairman of Rayleigh Town Council Robert Milne.

"A charity cheque for £1,378 was presented to Keeley Hood from South East and Central Essex Mind.

"At last a lasting memorial to a great man."