Tributes paid to artist and photographer Nikki Howard

Nicola Howard , better known as Nikki,  was a dedicated campaigner against pollution emanating from industries in the Goods Yard by Acton Main Line station.

Although not a member of the Conservative party, she felt strongly that Angie Bray our former Conservative MP was the right person to lead an anti pollution campaign.

Through Nikki's influence, Angie set up a liaison group of industry managers, Environment Agency representatives, Council Officers, members and Residents. 

Through the efforts of the group, two Waste management businesses have gone elsewhere and large fines have been levied on a third business. All business have refined their processes and pollution levels are regularly monitored and shown to be have dropped. This is a considerable achievement  The group continues to meet and remains vigilant.

Nikki was born in the Central Middlesex hospiral in 1946 and apart from a spell in the army lived most of her life in Acton. She was a professional photographer until breathing difficulties forced her retirement. She was known for her love of dogs and her support of the Mayhew and the Dogs Trust. She was a talented artist and musician and a funny raconteur. Her death on 3rd January due to complex breathing difficulties has left a gap in Acton society.

Former Conservative MP for the area, Angie Bray, has sent her condolences, ' 'I got to know Nikki through her campaign against the long standing pollution problem around Horn Lane. Like many local residents, Nikki suffered from its effects. She made sure that I was made aware of the problems and that I took up her cause. There have been many successes but there is more to do. Nikki was always an active minded member of her community. She will be greatly missed'

Ealing Council Leader Julian Bell said, ''Nikki Howard was a tough and passionate campaigner who was known as a leading voice in the Acton community. We didn’t always agree being on opposite sides of the political divide but together we managed to make real progress on the issues of pollution surrounding Horn Lane in Acton. My sincere condolences go out to Nikki’s friends and family at this difficult time.''

Funeral arrangements to follow.

May she rest in peace.

Maire Lowe

18th January 2017