Eastbourne taxi boss funeral

Hundreds of people turned out to say farewell to popular taxi boss Chris Islip at his funeral on Wednesday.
By The Newsroom
Published 6th May 2016, 12:14 BST
Updated 6th May 2016, 13:17 BST

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Mr Islip, the boss at Sussex Cars, died suddenly at his home in Cavendish Avenue last month aged 62.

His funeral was held at Eastbourne Crematorium after his coffin was taken on a horse drawn carriage through the town centre past the Sussex Cars office in Pevensey Road followed by 25 drivers.

A celebration of his life continued at the Grand Hotel.

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Mr Islip’s family said he was a very unique man and had a distinctive voice with a cheeky tone: a lovable gent with traditional values and a great sense of humour.

“He was extremely approachable and his staff thought very highly of him. Many saw him as a father figure who could always be depended upon.

“Chris has touched so many people’s lives over the years and will be missed dearly by so many. The funny memories people have of him will be thought of fondly, treasured and never forgotten.”

Born and bred in Eastbourne, Mr Islip began his working life at his parents’ hotel and then their retirement home in Carlisle Road.

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He bought a Hackney Carriage plate when he was 18 and started Radio Cars.

He joined Charrington Brewers and managed Diplocks and Ziggy’s Nightclub in Pevensey Road and also managed Frasco’s in Grove Road.

While still working for Charrington, Mr Islip was the financial investor starting Sussex Cars in 1985 with only three drivers.

He was also a prominent fundraiser for local charities and sponsored local events and venues.

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From 2000 to 2007, Mr Islip and his business partner were operating the House of Commons nightclub and also opened Bolton’s Bar in Eastbourne.

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