“It is with great sadness that we announce the passed away peacefully this morning (Wednesday 27th April 2005), of Bill Kear after loosing his fight against cancer.

As you know he has been a valued and active member of Eyott Sailing Club and a Committee member for many years. As our club secretary we relied heavily on his experience and knowledge to keep the club running smoothly. We will all miss him greatly as will many others.

His wife, Lyn, has asked that people not to phone for today or tomorrow allowing the family some moments of privacy. The family has asked that anyone wanting to make a donation in memory of Bill send it to Farleigh Hospice where Bill enjoyed the wonderfully relaxed and peaceful environment.”

Alan Brunning – Commodore Eyott Sailing Club.

Bill appeared several times on this site and was always there when a helping hand was needed or when a volunteer was required to drive the support boat. His knowledge of the river and enthusiastic style often put his up with the front of the fleet if not always in with the winners.

Bill was also a governor at one of the local schools in South Woodham Ferrers and was as enthusiastic about his work there as he was about his sailing. Accompanying the annual school trip, often to the Isle of Wight, was part of his role and I know that my own daughter had a great time with him when she went away last year. He will be greatly missed.