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TAKEN FROM THE ECHO 25TH SEPTEMBER
Tears for a clown
Friday 25th September 2009
By Christine Sexton
A CLOWN who raised thousands of pounds for south Essex charities has died at the age of 55.
Phil Amanet, also known as Bojo the clown, overcame many personal hardships to become a regular at Southend carnivals and fundraising events across the town.
He spent years dressed as a clown travelling around each summer to collect money for charity at carnivals across the region.
The veteran fundraiser was also an entertainer at children’s parties and a local DJ known as PJ.
He brought a smile to many faces and leaves a cabinet full of carnival awards and trophies, as well as many happy memories for those who knew him.
Friend Peter Dominey, from Southend’s Church From Scratch, said: “Phil had a hard start to life.
“He was a rough sleeper near Waterloo Bridge in London and in the summer he would come to Southend to work on the fairground where the Woodgrange Estate now is.
“After a younger life caught up in crime and prison, he resolved to come good and moved to Southend.
Helped by local churches, Westcliff Baptist, Westcliff Elim, and Church from Scratch, he rebuilt his life on a strong Christian faith.
Mr Dominey said: “Phil took up clowning and volunteering at the Homeless Centre in Westcliff, making his contribution to others less fortunate than himself.”
Bojo died last Saturday from the long-term effects of diabetes.
He has no relatives, so a funeral is being arranged by Southend Hospital.
It is expected to be held in the week starting Monday, October 5. Anyone who wishes to attend should contact Church from Scratch nearer the time on 01702 344222.
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