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Tributes Paid To Former Sandown And Shanklin Lifeboat Volunteer

Photo thanks to Ryde Inshore Rescue

Tributes are being paid to a former volunteer at Sandown and Shanklin Lifeboat.

Gary Spearman, from Ryde, lost his battle with cancer yesterday (Sunday).

To show their respect Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat will fly their flag at half-mast.

He has previously served with Ryde Inshore Rescue the British Red Cross and WightSAR.

On the final day of the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, deputy chief fire officer Steve Apter appointed him as an honorary firefighter because Gary had always wanted to join the fire service.

As previously reported, Steve spoke exclusively to Isle of Wight Radio about what the merger of The Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service will mean for Islanders. 

One volunteer, Rob Fallows paid tribute to Mr Spearman, he posted on Facebook:

'That's such sad news. Gary was the first person I met when I first came to SSILB . Gary welcomed me in, showed me the ropes and introduced me to everyone, great guy.'

we fly our flag at half mast to honour one of our ex crew members and friend Gary Spearman who lost his battle with cancer. Our thoughts are with his family. #999family

Posted by Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat on Monday, April 5, 2021

Photo thanks to Ryde Inshore Rescue

Flag flying half-mast, photo thanks to Ryde Inshore Rescue

Photo of Gary thanks to Ryde Inshore Rescue

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