It is with great sadness that we have to announce the passing of our Sailing School Principle Phil Webb. For those that knew him and had the pleasure of sailing with him he was a true character and words here cannot express the loss we feel at his death.
His passion for sailing started on the shores of Rudyard Lake with his mentor Jim Ridgeway and the Sea Scouts. They then went on to start the Sailing School some 50 years ago at a number of locations around the City before it finally settled here at St. Thomas More.
Throughout this time this passion and energy for all things water has been boundless. The enthusiasm and love of sailing he generated was infectious.
Phil’s knowledge and advice was invaluable and his ability to ‘read the sea’ was a skill gained not only from books but from a career of over 50 years out on the water. To sail with Phil was a privilege and watching him helm a boat was a joy to behold. Time with Phil on board was more valuable than reading any lengthy tome. He will be remembered not only for his willingness to share his knowledge but for the opportunities and encouragement he gave to those starting out on their sailing journey. A sailor of the old school he had the readiness to embrace new ideas and was always prepared to listen and to learn from mariners whatever their level of experience. His enormous generosity was evidenced by an endless stream of books and DVD’s which he passed on to colleagues with his customary enthusiasm. With Phil’s passing the sailing fraternity has lost not only a great sailor but a good friend and shipmate. For those who benefited from his time, knowledge, and friendship and had the pleasure of being with him is to continue his work by passing on his words of wisdom. His parting gift will be for us to continue to share with others his passion for the natural world and most of all for his love of the open sea.
He will be greatly missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him. Give thanks when you next set sail for a life well lived. RIP Phil
Phil Webb 1944-2020