Eastenders Josephine Melville Southend commemoration event

David Burton-Sampson, MP for Southend West and Leigh, gave the opening speech at the Josephine Melville Commemoration celebration which took place at Metal Arts in Chalkwell Park on Sunday afternoon.

He praised the passion and drive of the former Eastenders actress, who lived in Westcliff for many years, and passed away backstage in October 2022 after appearing in a production of Nine Night in Nottingham.

Remembrance - More than 80 people attended Josephine's commemoration event (Image: Nottingham Playhouse)

Josephine, who was born in Essex, served as an organiser for events such as the East Beach Festival and was a founding member of the Caribbean Festival.

Mr Burton-Sampson said: “It was a privilege to give the opening speech at the Josephine Melville Commemoration celebration yesterday.

“Jo was a big face on the Southend scene and was passionate about driving greater community cohesion.

“Her spirit clearly lives on in all those who attended yesterday to celebrate a life well lived but ended too soon.”Privilege - David Burton-Sampson MP with Michelle and Mark Passfield (Image: David Burton-Sampson)

The event saw a fully packed house with tributes, readings and musical performances in honour of the late star.

A photo reel detailing the actress’ legacy was displayed and a buffet lunch was provided for those in attendance.

The actress had appeared in shows such as Casualty and The Bill, and worked in stage, screen and radio roles.

Josephine was also a member of the committee at the Hamlet Court Road in Harmony in Westcliff, involved with Southend’s steel band group Steel Here, and the founder of the South Essex African Caribbean Association (SEACA) based in Southend.

Josephine had been a trustee of the Metal Arts organisation before her passing.