A long serving volunteer of a charity which helps those with sight loss has passed away suddenly.

Barbara Tuff had been involved with the Southend charity Southend In Sight for more than twenty years and tributes have been paid by those who will miss her greatly.

Barbara was first employed on a part-time basis in 1996, to co-ordinate the setting up of a new Resource Centre at the charity’s care home, Elkington House on Imperial Avenue.

In 1997 Barbara and several volunteers approached Southend Hospital Eye Clinic with the idea of having an information service from the charity, in the reception area manned by both visually impaired and sighted volunteers - 22 years later this service is still ongoing and has helped countless people with practical advice and support.

Barbara resigned as coordinator in 1998 but continued as a volunteer for both the Resource Centre and the Eye Clinic.

She saw the Resource Centre go from strength to strength and in 2018 joined in the celebrations for the launch of Southend in Sight and a brand new refurbished Resource Centre at the charity’s Hamlet Court Road base.

In Barbara’s own words ‘from small acorns big trees grow’. Barbara continued to volunteer at the eye clinic until her death

Stephanie Cooper, Vice Chairman of the charity said: "Barbara has helped and supported numerous visually impaired folk over the last 23 years. She will be sorely missed - of small stature but with a big heart."

There will be a private family cremation on Monday March 4 followed by a Thanksgiving Service at 12pm at Holy Trinity Church, Southchurch.

All friends very welcome at the Church to celebrate Barbara’s life and afterwards at a local venue. Donations in memory of Barbara will go to Southend in Sight.

For further local support and information about services and assistance, please call Southend In Sight on 01702 342131 or go to www.southendinsight.org.uk.