Tributes paid after death of popular Eastbourne probation officer

Warm tributes have been paid to a probation officer from Eastbourne who died last year and whose inquest has just been held.
By AnneMarie Field
Published 3rd Aug 2020, 13:42 BST
Nick Downs SUS-200308-104518001Nick Downs SUS-200308-104518001
Nick Downs SUS-200308-104518001

Nicholas Downs worked for the Probation Service and had led the Community Payback team in various projects to improve the area.

The 55-year-old was also a volunteer with the First Responders organisation in Eastbourne.

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Mr Downs shared a home in Shinewater Lane with his partner Jackie Richardson.

He died in Eastbourne on September 22 last year.

His daughters Bethany and Kayleigh said, “Our Dad was a man who was loved by many. His humour and large as life character certainly didn’t go unnoticed by anyone who he met. He touched many people’s lives and made such a positive impact through both work, family and home life.

“It has been humbling to hear the many stories as to how passionate our Dad was to his jobs with Community Payback and the First Responders.

“As a family we are so very proud of everything he achieved.

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“He was a well loved father by both of us and was adored by his four grandchildren. His passing has left us devastated, and has left a void that could never be replaced. He bought a light so bright into this world that he will forever continue to light up the darkest of skies.”

An inquest into Mr Downs’ death was held at Eastbourne Town Hall on Thursday (July 29) and East Sussex coroner James Healy-Pratt ruled that he had taken his own life.

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