By Isle of Wight Observer
Friends and family gathered at Freshwater Bay, for a final farewell and fireworks, in memory of well-known sea angler and fishing tackle shop owner, Andy Barnes.
Andy died on June 26 as a result of a long-standing medical condition.
He was an exceptional angler, with extensive knowledge of fishing the waters around West Wight. His tackle shop in Freshwater was used by many anglers, both Islanders and mainland visitors, who appreciated Andy’s willingness to share his knowledge to help others get out and catch.
Following his cremation, around a hundred of his friends gathered at Freshwater Bay to say their final farewells, and help scatter his ashes into the sea, accompanied by flowers and a firework display. One friend said: “This was a fitting end to an era of sea angling in West Wight, and Andy will be greatly missed by many.”
The event was organised by his sister, Caroline.
