Friends "devastated" at death of popular Portsmouth DJ amid tribute event at pier
A dance event at South Parade Pier will take place this month
The death of a popular Portsmouth DJ who would “help anybody” has left family and friends “devastated” as they plan to give him a fitting send-off.
Ben Stott, known as Eski, tragically died around a month ago leaving those who knew him “shocked” and struggling to come to terms with his passing.
As a tribute to the techno DJ, who had his own brand called Wrong Island, a fundraising dance party will be held at South Parade Pier on July 18 from 7pm to 1am.
Those attending the free event are encouraged to make a donation for the Samaritans and Orchid cancer charity, as chosen by Ben’s son Ash.
The non-ticketed event, which is expected to be packed out, will see famous dance DJ Chris Liberator flying in from Poland to perform alongside a host of other names.
Louise Smith, Ben’s former partner, said: “It’s going to be one hell of a night with lots of people going which shows how popular a guy he was.
“He was a big DJ known by many people locally and made music on Spotify. He was a loved and very popular guy who was always cheerful.”
Despite Louise and Ben separating the pair remained close over the years - with the DJ “very proud” of their son Ash. “We were very close and were more like a family than him being an ex - he was always very supportive,” Louise said.
“He had a hectic and crazy life but he was passionate about his son, who he was very proud of, and was passionate about his family and friends. Ash is now relaunching his dad’s brand Wrong Island and raising money for cancer charities to make his dad proud.
“Ben left all his records to his son, which is enough to open a record shop.”
Louise said Ben, who grew up in Hayling Island, had struggled with mental health battles. She said: “He had his fair share of mental health struggles but just got on with life and would always help others.
“He took life in his stride and made the best of things. I don’t think he realised how strong he was. Ben would help anybody and be friends with anyone. He was a guy you could not help but like.
“It’s sad how it ended. Everyone’s shocked, it feels surreal. We’re all devastated.”
Louise said Ben’s kind nature was shown with the picture (attached) that shows him holding a cuddly toy fox belonging to a boy with cancer who Ben helped.
Close friend Steve Jackson, who is organising the dance event at South Parade Pier, said they hope to raise a good amount of money thanks to all the free support. That includes all DJ's, the sound system, lights, lasers and decks, while the pier hire has been given for free.
Steve said: “He had his heart in the right place and would do good things for people. He was a popular guy who stood out, everyone loved him. He liked to do nice things for others.”
Ben’s funeral at Havant Crematorium on Monday July 13 is also expected to be a “big turn out”, with Louise revealing he will be given a send-off with his own music.