A DEDICATED search and rescue volunteer has died just days after being made an honorary firefighter.

Fire, lifeboat, coastguard and search teams across the Island are mourning the loss of Gary Spearman, who died yesterday (Easter Sunday) following a battle with cancer.

As a young boy he yearned to become a firefighter, but was unable to.

However, he threw his heart and soul into volunteering for the emergency services, serving with Ryde Inshore Rescue, WightSAR, and Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat, among others.

On the final day of the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, and knowing Mr Spearman was very poorly, deputy chief fire officer Steve Apter appointed him as an honorary firefighter.

The ceremony was held at Mountbatten Hospice, and Mr Spearman died just four days later.

In attendance were firefighters Damon Corr and David Lines.

Damon wrote on the IW Fire Brigades Federation website: "Gary shall always be remembered as the service's final appointment.

"The emotion on his face when he realised the significance of the moment was something that David and I shall never forget.

"It was the right thing to do for a young man who had given so much of his life for the good of others."

Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat flew its flag at half mast today.

They said: "We fly our flag at half mast to honour one of our ex crew members and friend Gary Spearman who lost his battle with cancer. Our thoughts are with his family."

Ryde Rescue did the same yesterday, and said: "We fly our flag at half mast to honour one of our ex members and friend Gary Spearman who lost his battle with cancer. Our thoughts, prayers and condolences go to all his family."

Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team said: "The Isle of Wight Search and Rescue family lost one of its most professional, selfless and dedicated members.

"Gary has helped to rescue so many people over the years yet most don't even know his name. RIP Gary you will be missed by all of us."