Saying goodbye to a colourful character - with video

11:06am Wednesday 23rd January 2013 in News By Kimberly Middleton, Acting chief reporter

Jonny Sutherland, who died aged 37 Jonny Sutherland, who died aged 37

A converted van carrying one of Brighton’s most colourful characters was cheered along the seafront yesterday.

Jonny Sutherland died suddenly three days before Christmas, aged 37.

The popular graphic designer, inventor and entertainer who was also a talented hat maker, was known by half of Brighton for cycling around on a variety of tall contraptions.

Hundreds of people gathered on the seafront to pay Jonny an appropriate farewell.

The procession travelled along Madeira Drive before heading to Woodvale Crematorium, and was accompanied by people donning bird feathers in their hats and riding bicycles.

He was carried in the converted van he was travelling around the UK in with his girlfriend.

Jonny had worked at Northern Lights bar on Little East Street for three years.

Friend Sally Irish said: “We have lost one of the colourful characters of our city.”

Did you know Jonny? Pay your tributes to him below.

Comments(2)

anonymous coward says...
6:02pm Wed 23 Jan 13

Nothing like an advert of a happy smiling family to illustrate somebody's funeral procession.

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Jess May Rose says...
6:57pm Wed 23 Jan 13

I feel so lucky to have known, and be part of the beautiful send off for, Jonny Sutherland. For those who didn't have the pleasure of meeting him in his free spirited and inspired life please take a moment to imagine a man who, even his closest, oldest, friends and family say they had never heard speak a bad word about anyone else. Any amazing achievement for anyone. Again and again it was said how he never made anyone feel judged and was present and heart open to all he met. He led a humble and creative life in which he seemed to have mastered the art of zen and making the most of whatever came his way. Eccentric, everything was an opportunity to create beauty and fun. Thank you Jonny for soo much inspiration! Thanks also to all the amazing family, blood and brethren, who made yesterday the delightful and high spirited celebration it was that honored his name.

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