Tributes are being paid to a beloved Isle of Wight shoemaker.

Kevin Garlick, who operated from a small workshop in Ventnor – renowned for his unique and sophisticated work – died on February 12 of this year.

Kevin began as a re-enactor, recognising a need for historically accurate shoes – vintage and period pieces.

After working as an engineer for years, he found he had the right kind of mind for the job and began making his own handmade shoes for re-enactments.

Isle of Wight County Press: A pair of late 18th century ladies’ shoes made by Kevin, based on a pair of Marie Antoinette’s shoes, stolen during the fall of the Tuileries, and now preserved in the Musee Carnavalet in France.A pair of late 18th century ladies’ shoes made by Kevin, based on a pair of Marie Antoinette’s shoes, stolen during the fall of the Tuileries, and now preserved in the Musee Carnavalet in France. (Image: Kevin Garlick)

He then started making shoes for others, and it quickly became not only his passion, but also his livelihood.

What followed was 30 years in shoe making, working for re-enactors, film studios, theatres and museums; the likes of the Ragged Victorians, The Globe Theatre, museum exhibitions at Rathfarnham Castle and Boston Tea Party, and Santa Fe Opera.

He even made shoes for Joan Collins, for a play, and for a company of pikemen and musketeers at King Charles’ coronation.

Isle of Wight County Press: A batch of Napoleonic British army boots for Wellington’s army.A batch of Napoleonic British army boots for Wellington’s army. (Image: Kevin Garlick.)

Kevin worked on countless projects over the years.

In film and television, he made shoes for A Discovery of Witches, Winter King, Sandman, and others, with Wolf Hall being his last commission.

“Kevin was a master at shoe making, and it is a massive loss to the entertainment industry and our lives,” said his wife, Anzhelika.

Isle of Wight County Press: Handmade 18th century common work shoes from the Boston Tea Party Museum.Handmade 18th century common work shoes from the Boston Tea Party Museum. (Image: Kevin Garlick.)

His sudden death came as a shock to his family and friends, and a JustGiving page was set up – to raise money for his funeral.

Its £1,955 target was smashed as the Isle of Wight community rallied behind the legendary shoemaker – to give him the send-off he deserves.

His funeral is fixed for Friday, March 8, at 12.45pm, at the Isle of Wight Crematorium.

His hearse will pass his shop at around 11.55am, and members of the public are encouraged to gather and pay their respects.

Isle of Wight County Press: A pair of 1840s ladies’ side-laced boots.A pair of 1840s ladies’ side-laced boots. (Image: Kevin Garlick.)