TRIBUTES have been paid to a “well-respected” and loyal member of the Shoebury Residents Association who played a vital role in the overhaul of a heritage centre.

John Budge, the treasurer of the group, died in Southend Hospital on August 12 after a battle with bowel cancer.

He had been involved in the residents association for many years, and in recent years led a project to overhaul the Cart and Wagon Shed in Gunners Park.

The Cart and Wagon Shed is a heritage and community centre that celebrates Shoebury’s history as a military establishment during the First and Second World Wars.

Vice-chairman and friend Peter Lovett said: “John’s death is quite a big loss.

“He was a great supporter. He was the one who persuaded me to become chairman.

“I’m good at work and doing things, but I’m not very good at leading. However, John believed in and persuaded me to take on the role.

“He was a great right-hand man to me. John’s been a huge asset to the Shoebury Residents Association and a great friend. My thoughts are with his wife Wendy and his family at this sad time.”

In 2016, Mr Budge was involved with setting up the Government sponsored Shoebury Coastal Community Team, which is one of around 170 similar organisations set up to help coastal communities.

Once the refurbishment of the Cart and Wagon Shed was complete, he became one of four directors tasked with getting the building opened as a cafe, heritage area and community space.

Derek Jarvis, West Shoebury ward Conservative councillor and neighbour of Mr Budge, said: “It’s extremely sad because we knew he was ill, but he carried on serving his community regardless. Most people who have an interest in what’s going on in this part of city will have known about John and the work he’s done over the years.

“I’m sure there was an overwhelming amount of sadness when the devastating news of my dear friend came in.

“My thoughts are with his family and friends.”

People were quick to pay their respects in the comments of a Facebook post announcing John’s death, with one saying: “John was a proper old school gent, nothing was ever too much. My thoughts are with Wendy and the rest of his family.”