MANY tributes have been paid and commiserations expressed following the death of a borough artist whose work gained royal approval.

Norman Coker has passed away last week, aged 93, and was a talented artist who recorded the changing local landscapes around East Tilbury and Linford through his paintings.

Mr Coker was a former jazz pianist who played in many top London venues. His talents also extended to sport and he became captain of Basildon Golf Club during the 1980s.

During the Second World War he served in the Irish Guards.

His niece Jill Kavanagh paid tribute to him, saying: "His art sold all around the world, and he auctioned several paintings to raise money for animal charities.

"Classified as a 'Romantic' artist, his paintings always told a story.

"He had many amusing tales from his early career as a jazz pianist.

"His proudest artistic achievement was having two paintings accepted into the Royal households, one by HRH Princess Ann, and the other by HRH Prince Charles.

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"My uncle Norman will be missed so much, but he will live on through his treasured art."

Mr Coker's funeral will take place on Wednesday, 11 November.