Heartbreak as 'genuine and caring' man, 55, pulled from water after going missing
Family and friends are mourning the loss of a 'genuine and caring' man who was pulled from the water after going missing.
The 55-year-old, named locally as Mark Singleton, was reported missing on Sunday after he was last seen getting into a kayak near his home in Poole, Dorset.
A major search operation was launched, involving the coastguard, RNLI and Dorset Police, and his body was sadly discovered on Monday afternoon.
Mark's family and friends have paid tribute to a "lovely man" who will be "deeply missed." In a statement, his family said: "Mark was a loving husband, father and grandfather who was always there for his family and friends.
"He was a keen kayaker and loved spending time on the water. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him."
Mark's death is a reminder of the dangers of kayaking, even for experienced paddlers.
The RNLI advises that kayakers should always wear a lifejacket, carry a means of calling for help, and check the weather forecast before going out on the water.
If you are planning to go kayaking, the RNLI advises that you:
- Wear a lifejacket
- Carry a means of calling for help
- Check the weather forecast
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back
- Avoid kayaking alone
If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 999 immediately.
