I first got to know Tony about 9 years ago, when he rescued me from a capsize while kayaking on the river Dart near Buckfast Abbey. He was a quiet person in the group, but I got to know about some of his depth of interests when we had lunch or tea after a paddle sometimes. He impressed me as tough and brave in the face of the problems his dyslexia caused, and then the amputation of his lower leg four years ago. I was glad to use my own skills with words to support him in his fight for good medical treatment, and to advance his sea kayaking skills with formal qualifications. I enjoyed great paddling with him when I was fit enough to do so - sadly, not often enough. He liked wild music; whenever he gave me a lift, something new and fun was playing. He was nobody's yes man, a brave free spirit. His family and friends will feel his loss greatly.