A CHARITY fundraising page has been set up in memory of a much-loved and respected Thurrock man whose death at an early age from cancer has left a gaping hole in the borough.

The death of Ian Evans (37), who was a key figure in helping disabled members of the Thurrock community, was reported on Thurrock Nub News yesterday (Wednesday, 3 June) with a tribute from his friend and colleague Kelly Woolley.

Today his friends have penned their own tribute to Ian, which we are pleased to be able to bring you in full.

It reads:

Ian was recently diagnosed with an aggressive bladder cancer and sadly passed away surrounded by his family on 1st June 2020. He bore the diagnosis with dignity and courage, as was the nature of this remarkable young man, and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Ian worked for Thurrock Coalition, a user-led organisation, and was an extremely passionate advocate for the disabled residents of Thurrock; he worked closely with many local, regional and national organisations.

He delivered training, consultations and events to promote equality, human rights and the Social Model of Disability – raising awareness of people's rights, responsibilities, duties and entitlements and to remove physical, environmental and attitudinal barriers that disable people, empowering others to have choice and control in their lives and the community.

Indeed, from leaving University Ian began his legal career at the United Nations ICTY in The Hague followed by a period at "Refugee Migrant Justice" at Bedford representing refugees with asylum applications and appeals, before joining Thurrock Coalition where he built an unrivalled reputation through hard work and diligence, and was admired and respected by many local professionals and residents alike.

Ian was loved by many and made a memorable impact on everyone he met. He was softly spoken with a dry sense of humour, but nothing was never too much trouble, he was generous with his time and would assist anyone if he possibly could.

He proudly promoted equality and independence and worked hard to ensure the local community had a voice; he was a very proud and dignified man, who hated asking for help as he valued his own independence and having control in his own life too.

Ian showed empathy and compassion to everyone. He loved his music, especially jazz music and often went to concerts and the occasional festival; his passion was to play the drums (not good when owning a VW Scirocco as it's a struggle to get a full drum kit inside) having obtained his first set as a young boy. He was an enthusiastic member of a local band and would look forward to their practice sessions and jamming with friends.

Although Ian will be sorely missed by his family, friends, work colleagues and many Thurrock residents, his legacy to us all will be the confidence and belief he instilled in the local community - that everyone is equal and valued and their voice should be heard and respected when shaping the Thurrock Community for the future.

A family funeral will take place soon, family flowers only with donations in his memory to MacMillan Cancer, but a memorial event is planned once lockdown is eased to celebrate Ian's life and achievements and allow everyone to pay their respects and remember him in their own way with fondness. Details of the event will be shared in due course.

Ian was a lifelong musician, drummer and champion for human rights & community development in both his local area and across the globe.

In memory, Ian's family have set up a Justgiving page for a music education charity - Templesprings in Grays.

You can donate here. The fund was initially set up to raise £50,. It has already passed £4,500 - a measure of the esteem Ian was held in.

About Templesprings

Templesprings is a coaching organisation and registered Charity based in Grays.

Since 2008, they have been delivering a wide range of services including music lessons, creative workshops, coaching sessions, which have now engaged thousands of families, children with disabilities and young people.

Templesprings is led by an experienced team of staff and volunteers with a passion for helping and inspiring the next generation of musicians and incredible people like Ian.

As a coaching organisation, their approach will inspire and motivate, helping develop and enjoy new skills. They work with people who want to access professional coaching services for personal development; those who are seeking career transition, who wish to make significant changes in their lives; people who are feeling less confident and want to gain transferable life skills.

Templesprings has helped produce young musicians locally and nationally. The programs are lively, dynamic and interactive. They include group classes in schools, faith organisations, and short intensive classes for individuals.

Their focus is on inspiring and getting the young person to have fun whilst learning to play and participate in music making.

Music is a powerful engagement tool for connecting with young people, and promoting their participation in creative, social and volunteering opportunities, which build their skills, confidence and resilience for the future; something Ian strongly believed in.