MINEHEAD locals have been paying their respects in the form of tributes to a well known local man who sadly passed away just before Christmas.

Albert Hartgen died suddenly at 76-years-old on Sunday December 17.

He was well known for his love of fishing, his time in the RNLI, and running the local butchers for over 30 years alongside his partner, Heather.

Mr Hartgen's children, Clare and Ross, and step-son Lee, said he 'dedicated his life' to Minehead RNLI as the last Swimmer on the crew.

In 1975 he was awarded on Vellum for his role in the rescue of all on board a yacht in the Bristol Channel.

On social media, the Orca Fishing Charter Minehead page run by Mr Hartgen's son, posted a tribute to Facebook: "It is with great sadness that I announce the unexpected passing of the skipper of Ocra, Albert aka Burt, on the 17th December 2023.

"Albert was at home on the sea and took every opportunity to go fishing over the nearly 50 years as a charter Skipper.

"He was a loving civil partner to Heather, father to Clare and myself (Ross), Grandad to Annaliese, Corey and Bodhi and will be missed by so many.

"May you rest in peace and may fair winds blow. Sleep easy Dad and you where always the best."