Local musician and writer David Hughes has died aged 72, following a short illness.

While a respected local historian and author of 'The Maldonians', David's greatest passion was music. As an established musician, David performed with folk bands such as Fairport Convention, Pentangle, and in annual festive gigs with his band, St Agnes Fountain.

Perhaps even better known as his aliases 'Cocker Freeman' and latterly 'Dengie Boy', David's parody songs proved hugely popular as he paid musical homage to the Dengie and the rest of the Maldon District.

David died peacefully at Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford, on 10 April.

Further information about David's life and musical career, along with tributes from friends and family, has been published in an obituary.