Tributes pour in for former Southend councillor Derek Jarvis

Matt Dent, Labour councillor for culture, tourism and business, and councillor Tony Cox, current leader of the Reform Group, have led tributes to the former West Shoebury councillor, Derek Jarvis, after his passing.

Mr Jarvis, who was the former Conservative councillor for arts, culture, heritage and leisure, was bestowed the prestigious Honorary Alderman title earlier this month for his 23 years of service to the council.

The former councillor had been battling bowel cancer before his passing.

Mr Cox, who was a close friend of the councillor, was “devastated” by the news of and added Mr Jarvis "was like a second father” to him.

Devastated - Tony Cox (Image: Archive)

He said: “Devastated to hear of the passing of my good friend, former West Shoebury colleague and past Mayor Derek Jarvis.

“Derek was like a second father to me and grandad to my two girls. My thoughts are with his wife Val and their children.

Tributes - News of Derek Jarvis' passing broke this evening (Image: Archive)

“Rest in peace pal, you don’t know how much you will be missed!”

Mr Dent added he was saddened to hear of his predecessor’s death and praised him for his work championing the Jazz Centre and Southend Pier Museum.

Matt Dent (Image: Archive)

He said: “I'm saddened to hear this evening of the death of former city councillor Derek Jarvis.

“Derek was my predecessor in the culture brief, and it has been an honour to take over from him in the work he was doing. His commitment to local causes such as the Jazz Centre UK and the Southend Pier Museum was well known and unshakeable.

“My thoughts and condolences are with Derek's family and friends.”

Mr Jarvis played a pivotal role in helping to bring an Olympic quality diving pool to Garon Park, which was used for the preparation of Team GB at the 2012 Olympics.