A fitting tribute to Echo political reporter Geoff (From Echo)

A fitting tribute to Echo political reporter Geoff

4:00pm Monday 30th August 2010 in

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HUNDREDS of people assembled to say farewell to a much-loved legend of Essex journalism.

About 200 people were at Southend Crematorium for the funeral of the Echo’s political reporter Geoff Percival.

Geoff, 62, who had a long and distinguished career in newspapers across Essex, died on August 12 following a short battle with lung cancer.

Family, friends, work colleagues and politicians attended the emotional but uplifting service led by the Reverend David Coster.

Martin McNeill, the Echo’s Editorial Director, paid a glowing tribute to Geoff’s character and his achievements.

He said: “It’s not an over-statement to say he was a real legend of Essex journalism.

“He was passionate about local newspapers. He played with a straight bat and his writing was always balanced, fair and accurate.

“We do miss him like crazy at the Echo.

“Geoff was a true character and an extraordinary journalist.”

Some of Geoff’s favourite songs were played at the service, including a Whiter Shade of Pale by Essex rock legends Procul Harum and Well Did You Evah! by Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby.

There were tears shed when the curtain closed on the coffin, with his favourite drinking mug on top and a picture of Geoff, who lived in Rayleigh, at his joyful best placed in front.

The funeral was followed by a reception at the Rayleigh Conservative Club, on London Hill, where Geoff was a regular.