Tributes have been paid to Burnham-On-Sea resident Gerry Prout who has died this week.
Gerry, 79, passed away peacefully at home in Burnham on Wednesday (April 22nd) of natural causes following a period of ill health.
Gerry was well-known for liking everything to do with boats and the sea, and he had extensive involvement with the Sailing Club, BARB, RNLI and assisting the Harbour Master.
Gerry was one of the founding members of BARB, which was formed as the Burnham Area Rescue Boat. He took on an important role in the background, helping the organisation.
In 2003, he was a key person in setting up Burnham’s RNLI lifeboat station once the RNLI decided to re-introduce a lifeboat service in the town. He became a Deputy Launch Authority and only stood down in 2011.
Gerry was an active business partner with his son Nick of the Boatshed in Burnham’s Love Lane, which carries out boat and jet ski repairs and restoration, and maintains engines and related maritime work.
Burnham RNLI’s Matt Davies said: “Gerry was very instrumental in setting up the station once the RNLI decided to start a lifeboat service in Burnham and he became one of our initial team of Launch Authorities using his vast knowledge of the local area and tidal conditions.”
“He was hugely respected in his position, both within the station and as a local businessman. He always had time to talk, have a friendly conversation, and pass on his experience to others.”
BARB Chairman Mark Newman added: “Gerry was instrumental in helping to form our charity back in 1992 and he had a key role for many years.”
“His understanding of all things maritime was unrivaled and he was greatly respected in the Burnham area. His time at BARB was much appreciated and our thoughts are with his family at this time.”
