Tributes have been paid to a much-loved angler who tragically died after a boat devastatingly “capsized” off the coast in Shoebury.
Emergency services rushed to the scene at around 9.30am on Sunday following reports of two people in “distress in the water”.
Heartbreakingly, one man has died after being rushed to the Royal London Hospital in a life-threatening condition.
He has been named locally as Norman Bottley, a much loved-angler who had been a member of the Shoebury Watermans Association for more than 40 years.
The group confirmed the sad news, saying he “will always be remembered.”
A spokesman added: “We are going to hold a two-minute remembrance for Norman this Saturday at 12pm, at East Beach.
“Standing along the road in front of our boats. For the first minute it will be silence, and the second minute will be clapping.
“Norman has been in the club for more than 40 years, a popular member, and also on the committee.
“He loved his fishing and shared his skills to many. Some of our members have said this has been like losing a member of their own family.”
Flowers have already been laid at the scene and dozens of people have sent their thoughts to Norman’s family and friends.
The Anglers and Danglers Fishing Club Southend also paid tribute to Norman.
A spokesman added: “It is with great sadness that we can confirm the passing of a fellow angler, Norman, after a terrible boating accident while going fishing.
“He will always be fondly remembered.
“We are thinking of his family and friends at this very sad time.”
The other person on the boat as it capsized was thankfully able to make it to the shore on his own.
HM Coastguard Southend also posted a comment on social media to the Shoebury Watermans Association, adding: “The whole team at HM Coastguard Southend was saddened upon hearing this news.
“Sending our condolences to yourselves and Norman’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Essex Police and the Coastguard have been contacted for comment on the update.
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