A MEMORIAL bench has been unveiled in Southend’s Priory Park in honour of a well-respected and much-loved Southend historian. 

Nick Skinner, who ran the Southend Timeline since 2011, passed away in October last year and his family were invited to the park, off Victoria Avenue, on Sunday to cut the ribbon on the bench. 

The Southend Timeline acted as a free database of local history providing a wealth of information on Southend’s past. 

A commemoration took place with Mr Skinner’s family at the Bowling Green in the park. 

It comes after a Just Giving page was set up following the 46-year-old’s death in a bid to honour his legacy. 

Funding was also distributed to charities from the area.

Mr Skinner’s mum, Christine, said: “We were so very grateful for the generous donations to Nick’s bench and it is in a lovely spot for us to be able to come and visit.”

Mr Skinner - who lived in Gainsborough Drive in Westcliff - was also known for his involvement with the Southend Vulcan Restoration Trust and as a supporter of the RNLI.

He went to Prittlewell High School while growing up. 

Councillor Beth Hooper, who had worked with Mr Skinner on Southend history projects, said: “The work that Nick did for so many years in building on the Southend Timeline means that for generations to come, our community will be able to learn about and from the past. 

“It is so important that we remember his great service to our borough with this bench.”

Due to Covid-19 regulations, only a small group were able to attend Sunday’s ceremony.

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During the unveiling, Rosalind Harman, of Ros Southend Past and Present in Photos, said: “From the people of Southend, with grateful thanks for your tireless work in documenting the history of our town. 

“Your dedication in recording everything Southend from the early days through to recent years.

“Your Southend Timeline website is and always will be the go to place to learn about our town. 

“Your fascination in collecting memorabilia and artefacts related to our town in your own personal collection was unmatched. 

“Your tireless work will carry on, with the dedication of others who wish to keep alive all that you have achieved over the years. 

“The Southend Timeline will live to keep alive all that you have achieved over the years. The Southend Timeline will live on as a wonderful memorial to you. 

“You will be remembered as a loving, son, brother and carer. As a supporter of the RNLI, Southend Museums, Southend Pier Museum and local charities including Cats Protection and Vulcan Trust. You will be greatly missed.”