Funeral arrangements have been announced for Southend nightlife icon Martin Bond, better known to many as ‘Disco Dave’, as hundreds of heartfelt tributes continue to pour in.
Martin was a familiar and flamboyant presence across Southend’s nightlife for decades, known for his trademark white suits, his warm smile and his love of music.
He was a regular face at legendary venues including TOTS, Churchills and Dick de Vignes, as well as at local live gigs, pub nights and open mic events.
Shelley Johnson, a friend of Martin, said:
“He was a regular in his white suits in Southend nightclubs and was always an eccentric chap with a big smile. He also loved seeing live bands around Southend, including at the Cow & Telescope and the Papillon.”
Sammi Britt said:
“What a character, he would pop up in the most unlikely places, but always had time for a chat and an update.”
Julian Hart added:
“So sad to hear this, he was one of the great Southend characters, a regular face at so many local gigs and great support for local bands at pubs and clubs.”
Tania Chester recalled:
“I remember Martin from years ago at Chester’s nightclub on the High Street. He was always with a lady and they danced the night away together.”
Tina Noakes-Hindle said:
“Rest in peace Martin. I remember him from the Dick de Vigne days,” referencing one of Southend’s well-known past nightclubs.
Charlotte Cooper said:
“Martin was a lovely man, very smiley and kind hearted. I spoke to him many times on nights out. He would always give me a friendly wave bless him, it’s going to be weird not seeing his face any more.”
Ronnie Knight said:
“Another face I’ve seen in Southend since childhood. Last time I spoke to him was in the Cricketers. RIP.”
Martin Evans added:
“RIP Martin… a lovely guy, so passionate about music. I’ve seen him at countless gigs and open mics in the Southend area over the years.”
Martin’s funeral will be held at Southend Crematorium on Thursday 2 October at 1.30pm. Friends, family and countless faces from the city’s club and music scene are expected to attend.
During the 1980s and 1990s, Southend’s nightlife was thriving, with packed dancefloors, themed club nights and live bands performing almost every night of the week. Venues like Chester’s, TOTS and Dick de Vignes drew huge crowds, becoming central to the social lives of countless young people across the city.
Martin was a core part of that fabric – a familiar, uplifting presence in an era when Southend’s club scene was buzzing with energy and creativity.
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New Martin or coat hanger as his nickname was over Chalkwell Park when we were kids playing football,
Due to his style of putting his arms out extended from the shoulders and dangling the forearm from his elbows lol.
Martin was a really nice guy and later I knew him from club Riga bar live music’ as he was a rock fan.
R.I.P. Martin