Tributes paid to sailor found off Western Isles

The boat believed to be that of Thomas Tyrrell, which has been found in the Western Isles before his body was located. Picture: PA

THE family of a sailor whose body was found after a major search have paid tribute to a “beloved husband, father and grandfather”.

Thomas Tyrrell failed to return after setting off from Brevig on the Isle of Lewis in his home-made vessel on Tuesday morning.

His boat was found off the Western Isles yesterday and his body was recovered nearby.

Stornoway Coastguard launched a major search after a call from concerned relatives at about 8pm on Tuesday night.

A host of lifeboats and helicopters were involved and the submerged boat was found in the Minch area yesterday morning.

In a statement issued through police his family said: “Now that family are aware, we confirm that our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Thomas Tyrrell was found deceased yesterday afternoon following a land and sea search.

“We would like to point out that Thomas had and was wearing his life jacket when found.

“We would like to thank all emergency services - Coastguard, RNLI, Hebrides Search and Rescue Team and Police for their efforts and for finding Thomas.

“We now respectfully request that we are left to grieve the loss of Thomas in private.”