Tributes paid to popular much-loved Eastbourne man

Tributes have been paid to a much-loved, caring and kind 26-year-old Eastbourne man who died suddenly earlier this year.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Elliot Laws was described by his family this week as always having a smile on his face and a young man who had his whole life ahead of him.

Elliot, a former Ratton School student, was found dead in an annexe of his family’s home in Jordans Lane West earlier this year.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

An inquest into his death was heard at Eastbourne Town Hall yesterday (Thursday, December 3).

Elliot Laws who died earlier this year SUS-200312-142221001Elliot Laws who died earlier this year SUS-200312-142221001
Elliot Laws who died earlier this year SUS-200312-142221001

Elliot’s mother Dinah Ouzman said her son, who worked as a hologram operator at the family’s firm Smith & Ouzman, had a huge personality.

She said, “Elliot was great fun, very kind and caring and always helped those in need.

“He had a wide network of friends and was one of a kind who had a bright future ahead of him.

“He couldn’t have been more loved by all of his family.”

Elliot Laws who died earlier this year SUS-200312-142221001Elliot Laws who died earlier this year SUS-200312-142221001
Elliot Laws who died earlier this year SUS-200312-142221001
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Elliot’s grandmother Joan Laws said, “He was loved so much and still is.”

The inquest, presided over by East Sussex coroner James Healy-Pratt, heard Elliot had suffered with his mental health and anxiety in recent years.

Police and emergency services were called to the annexe he lived alone in on February 21 2020.

A post mortem revealed he had been drinking and his death was due to hanging.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Coroner James Healy-Pratt said, “This is such a tragic loss of life; a young man who was spoken of so fondly by his family.”

He said he was satisfied that Elliot had intended to take his own life and recorded a verdict accordingly.

As Elliot’s funeral took place in March during the first Covid-19 lockdown, his family is planning a memorial service in the future.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, the Samaritans may be able to help – the charity’s helpline number is 116 123.