TRIBUTES have been pouring in for a popular member of Canvey’s community who has died.

Geoff Barsby, who has died of heart failure aged 72, was said to be a big part of the island community by his friends, family and community leaders.

He was well known for running a newspaper and historical talks on the island.

He has four children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Wayne Barsby, 41, from Suffolk said he did so much for the community on Canvey.

He said: “Dad started the District News between 35 and 40 years ago.

“He only retired in May this year.

“He also started the Canvey Mites Football Club about 40 years ago.

“He ran a charity alongside District News and used to collect and contribute different things for health care projects in the community.

“He donated equipment for heart conditions as well as equipment to help cot deaths too.

“He was a big personality on the island and everyone seemed to know him. Dad also used to hold bootsales on Canvey for many years.”

Mr Barsby said his father survived the floods in January 1953 and appeared on television for interviews about it.

He said his father’s condition meant is heart could have stopped at any time and he had retired due to his age.

Island councillors also had kind words to say about the former island media worker.

Dave Blackwell, Canvey Independent councillor, said he grew up as a neighbour with Mr Barsby.

He said: “We have known each other for all this time.

“I think it’s very sad to hear he has passed away. You will not hear anyone say a bad word about him.

“Our fathers were both firemen and we used to have to get their bikes ready when they were called out.

“We used to speak so regularly.

“It just seems to be such a shock.”

He moved from Canvey about 15 years ago but still worked on the island.

At the time of his death he was living in Suffolk and was in Colchester Hospital when he died.