The words of Nick's brother Mark : Nick was a wonderful Son, Brother and Uncle and always there for his family and cats and a wonderful carer for his Mother Any access money please donate for the purchase of a Memorial Plank on Southend PIer, Southend Museum/ or Southend Pier Museum..

The words of Family Friend Julie Lamb : """"Nick Skinner was a very loyal friend who loved life to the full. Nick never said a bad word about anyone but he loved a debate. He took over the Southend Timeline it was about Southend and Nick loved Southend. I have known Nick and his mum as a friends for many years, the friendship started through Cats. His mum Chris and Nick used to take in/ foster cats for me, they never said no to any cat however many problems the cat had.

""""Nick was a carer for his mum which he did well, he was a caring, patient, loving man. Everyday was precious to Nick and he was taken too soon. When I got the phone call from his mum I was heartbroken but also wanted a way to remember such a great person which is why I suggested a memorial bench. After speaking to his mum she would love it to be in Priory Park so she can be pushed there to enjoy it . This means a lot to the family so I hope we can raise the money needed Julie Lamb

The Words of Rosalind Harman : I meet Nick several times, we had a joint interest in the History of Southend - on - Sea. His dedication of maintaining the Southend Timeline, was unmatched. Many many local people found his web site a massive source of information. His Southend Timeline is indeed the place to go, to learn about our town. The dedication and commitment he showed in archiving the masses of information is and will be appreciated by many . Nick will be greatly missed by many, and I think a bench in Priory Park is a fitting tribute to such a great person.

Thank you everyone for your donations so far. Amazing how quickly we have reached the sum raised so far. Obviously Nick was well thought of. I have raised the target because, we are unsure exactly how much the bench will be. So we are covering the cost of the bench, (there is a choice of two designs) a dedication plaque, costs of siting etc, and any other expenses that may be included that we are not or are aware of at the moment. Including Fees. Anything over our target figures once funds have paid for the bench will go to a Southend Memorial Pier Plank, Southend Museum/Southend Pier Museum.

Amazing response, so grateful to everyone that has donated.

Update; We are all overwhelmed by the response to our request for donations. The ordering of the Park Bench is underway, and enquires have been made to purchase a Southend Pier Plank. Excess funds will be distributed under the guidance of Nick's family , and will fulfill their requests. Thank you all so much for your generosity. I will be closing this page on Sunday 17th January.