The parents of Essex man Nick Alexander, killed in the Paris terror attacks two weeks’ ago, have released a statement ahead of a memorial service taking place in the French capital today.

East Anglian Daily Times: Guests, right, attend during a ceremony in the courtyard of the Invalides in Paris. Photo: AP Photo/Francois MoriGuests, right, attend during a ceremony in the courtyard of the Invalides in Paris. Photo: AP Photo/Francois Mori

In a statement Mr Alexander’s parents Barry and Sheelagh said: “Words cannot express the sadness we feel at the loss of our precious Nick.

“This is just the beginning of a long road where we will have to get used to the absence of his physical presence around us – a physical presence that we loved so much, that made us laugh, that we loved being with, and always held us close wherever he was.

“We will get through this with the love and strength of our beloved family, friends and colleagues, and the support of so many people we have never even met.

“The outpouring of love from around the world has been a great comfort to us and makes us even more proud to have had Nick as our son. We will love and miss him forever.

East Anglian Daily Times: French President Francois Hollande, right, attends a ceremony to honour the 130 victims killed in the November 13 attacks. Photo: Philippe Wojazer/Pool Photo via APFrench President Francois Hollande, right, attends a ceremony to honour the 130 victims killed in the November 13 attacks. Photo: Philippe Wojazer/Pool Photo via AP

“We extend our love and condolences to all those who have been affected by this indiscriminate act, and are proud to stand with them in unity at the memorial service. Our lives are intrinsically linked forever.”

The service begins at 9.30am at the Hotel National des Invalides in Paris.

Mr Alexander, who grew up in Weeley and lived in Colchester, was the merchandise manager for American group Eagles of Death Metal when terrorists stormed the Bataclan concert venue they were due to play – killing 89 people and injuring more than 100 more.

The Colchester Arts Centre has organised a tribute event to Mr Alexander, who used to run club nights at the venue, being held on December 28.

East Anglian Daily Times: People wounded in the Paris attacks take part in a ceremony in Paris. Photo: AP Photo/Francois MoriPeople wounded in the Paris attacks take part in a ceremony in Paris. Photo: AP Photo/Francois Mori

Essex senior coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray this morning opened an inquest in Chelmsford into Mr Alexander’s death.

The case has been adjourned due to the ongoing investigation, but the court heard the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the chest.

Mrs Beasley-Murray released Mr Alexander’s body for a funeral service.