Brighton tattoo artist found dead in hostel room in Bali

Nico Hicks, from Brighton, was gaining experience at a tattoo studio on the paradise island before his death.

The 28-year-old was due to leave North Kuta and return to England when he was found dead by a friend. 

An inquest into his death at Brighton Coroner's Court has been announced for later this year.

Heartbroken friends have paid tribute on social media, with one saying: “Rest in peace Nic, you were supposed to be back to England yesterday, may God bless your soul."

While another friend wrote: “Rest in peace brother, can’t believe it two days ago is the last time I’ll see your smile. I’m going to miss you”.

Nico Hicks in Bali

Nico left school at a young age and travelled the world while working several jobs, including chefing, bartending, fruit picking and reception work.

On social media, Nico shared photographs of his travels around Indonesia, including visiting one of its main tourism sites, Mount Batur in Bali.

He also managed a hotel called Capsule Hotel New Seminyak in Bali, which won a traveller’s choice award from Tripadvisor in 2016.

Nico, who was a talented illustrator, decided to chase his “longstanding dream” by starting an online illustration course at Sessions College.

The college, which offers online degree and certificate programs in art, design and photography, list him online as a student ambassador. 

Before his death, Nico had an apprenticeship at a tattoo studio in Bali.

Mount Batur in Bali. Picture by Jessy Eykendorp

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has been in contact with Indonesian authorities and Nico's family following his death on April 16.

A spokesman said: “We were in contact with Indonesian authorities following the death of a British man in Bali in April and supported his family during this difficult time.”

A celebration of Nico's life was held in May and was attended by dozens of friends and family. 

During the event, pals were seen singing Nico's name to the tune of Whole Again by Atomic Kitten - a song that has recently been repopularised by England football fans.

An inquest into Nico's death is due to be held at the end of August.

Bali, in Indonesia, is a popular spot for tourists from all across the world. It is known for its mountainous interior of lush forests, clear lakes and sandy beaches.

The island is popular with people passing through Thailand and travelling on to Australia.

Foreign office policy states when someone dies abroad that it is down to the next of kin to “decide between a local burial, a local cremation, or bringing the person or their ashes home, which is known as repatriation”.